Lutein For Macular Degeneration

High concentrations of these carotenoids are found in the macula, also known as the macula lutea which means yellow spot in Latin.

The macular pigment is known to provide:

- protection against macular degeneration and cataracts
- protection to the macula against the harmful effects of blue light.

Low levels of macular pigment are associated with macular degeneration.

Researchers said the two pigments act as "sunlglasses" and appear to filter short-wavelength light that can damage the eye's retina.

"When we compared the amount of macular pigment, which is comprised of lutein and zeaxanthin, present in the eyes of people with age-related macular degeneration to people without the disease, those with the lowest levels of carotenoid accumulation in the outer retina were significantly more likely to suffer from age-related macular degeneration than those with higher pigment levels, " said Dr. Landrum.

"The difference in risk between those having the highest and lowest levels was 75 percent."
Dr. Landrum, Florida International University

The Eye Disease Case Control Study looked at 421 cases of wet AMD and 615 matched control cases. This is their conclusion:

Carotenoid levels in the blood were much lower in patients with macular degeneration.

Benefits of Lutein

"Increasing the consumption of foods rich in certain carotenoids, in particular dark green, leafy vegetables, may decrease the risk of developing advanced or exudative AMD."

JAMA. 1994 Nov 9;272(18):1413-20.

At this time there is no toxic dose that is known to cause harm. However, as a nurse I need to remind you that if a person is on blood thinners or is taking an aspirin a day for their heart, they should consult their doctor before starting any supplement.

Though this pigment is deposited into many areas of the body prone to free radical damage - like the eyes and skin - it cannot be manufactured by the body.

Foods High in Lutein

Lutein is found in red, orange and yellow colored vegetables like corn, squash and red peppers.

Dark green leafy vegetables such as kale, collard greens, and spinach have some of the highest concentrations.

Lutein Supplements

Should a person consider taking lutein for macular degeneration prevention or to prevent the progression of this disease?

It has been shown in several studies that levels of these two carotenoids can be increased in the eye when taking a supplement or eating these foods, but blood levels drop as soon as the supplement is not being taken.

Family members at risk may also consider taking lutein for macular degeneration or supplements for macular degeneration prevention beginning at an earlier age.

This, combined with good eye protection from the sun, may be of great help in preventing or prolonging the onset of macular degeneration.

Source: http://ezinearticles.com/?Lutein-For-Macular-Degeneration&id=1927067

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