What is Lutein? Introduction to Lutein
What is Lutein? Introduction to Lutein
Blog Article
What is Lutein?
Introduction to Lutein
Lutein is a carotenoid that is mainly distributed in the human macula and retina. Its properties are similar to β-carotene and vitamin A. Therefore, it is known as the "vitamin for the eyes." It is effective in preventing eye diseases such as age-related macular degeneration (AMD), cataracts and retinitis pigmentosa. In addition, lutein helps reduce the risk of colorectal cancer, breast cancer, type 2 diabetes and heart disease.
There are more than 600 known types of lutein, but only 30 to 50 are commonly found in foods, such as broccoli, spinach, kale, corn, bell peppers, kiwi fruit, grapes, orange juice, zucchini and pumpkin.
Lutein's mechanism of action
In daily life, the eyes will adjust themselves when exposed to light, but blue light can penetrate into the retina and macula. Lutein can filter blue light and protect eye tissue from damage. At the same time, lutein has antioxidant properties, which helps reduce free radical damage to the macula and inhibits inflammatory responses, thereby preventing eye diseases.
### Lutein precautions and recommended dosage
Lutein has a cumulative effect and it takes some time for the results to show up. According to the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA), adults should consume 6 mg of lutein per day. Since lutein is a fat-soluble nutrient, it is recommended to be taken after or with meals for optimal absorption.
Precautions before using Lutein
- Pregnant or breastfeeding women should take the product according to the doctor's instructions.
- People who are currently taking other medications.
- People who are allergic to lutein, other drugs or herbs.
- Have other diseases or health conditions, such as cystic fibrosis.
- Allergic to any substance, such as food, dyes, preservatives or animals, etc.
Before using lutein, you should consult your doctor or pharmacist. Especially for those who hope to reduce the incidence of cataracts or delay macular degeneration through lutein, the dosage should be adjusted according to age, physical condition and health conditions.
### Lutein ingredients
How to Choose Lutein Supplements
For people who cannot have a balanced diet every day, such as urban office workers and the elderly with poor eyesight, they can consider supplementing lutein through nutritional supplements. However, there are so many options on the market, how do you choose?
Free Lutein vs. Esterified Lutein
- **Free Lutein**: can be directly absorbed by the human body, and the absorption efficiency is higher.
- **Esterified lutein**: It needs to be converted by enzymes before it can be absorbed. It is less absorbed by the elderly or people with poor digestive function.
Single formula vs. multi-formulation
A single formula containing only lutein, with a simple ingredient list. Complex formulas may add other nutrients that contribute to eye health, such as zeaxanthin, anthocyanins or vitamin E. Researched combination formulas may improve overall effectiveness and absorption.
According to the National Institutes of Health, the optimal absorption ratio of lutein to zeaxanthin is 10:2. Therefore, when choosing lutein products, you should pay attention to whether they contain patented ingredients, such as FloraGLO® free lutein and ZeaONE® patented free zeaxanthin. Here are some common and effective compound ingredients:
- **Chilean wineberry**: Rich in anthocyanins and delphinidin, it helps increase tear secretion and relieve dry eyes.
- **Bilberry**: Contains a large amount of anthocyanins, which helps improve myopia, stabilize intraocular pressure and enhance night vision.
- **Astaxanthin**: It has strong antioxidant function, can increase blood flow to the retina and choroid, and reduce eye fatigue.
- **Flaxseed oil**: Rich in Omega-3 fatty acids, it has anti-inflammatory effects and improves the absorption rate of lutein.
- **Vitamin E**: An important antioxidant that can reduce retinal free radicals, protect the eyes and have anti-inflammatory effects.
After understanding the characteristics and composition of lutein, you can choose products that have obtained Taiwan's "SGS Safety Inspection Certification" and international quality evaluation to supplement it with peace of mind. Only by developing the habit of regularly supplementing lutein can you effectively protect your eyesight and maintain eye health.