What is Lutein?
Lutein is naturally identified in a range of fruits and vegetables, especially those with deep green, orange and yellow colourings. Lutein is a form of xanthophyll which is often used in the treatment and prevention of eye diseases.
Lutein products contained a natural substance classified as carotenoid, a group of antioxidant plant pigments. Lutein supplements provide a higher concentration of this antioxidant.
Lutein drugs are commonly utilized as alternative treatments for eye illnesses such cataracts and macular degeneration. Lutein, which accumulates in the retina and lens of the eye, is thought to protect the eye from damages produced by free radicals, chemical byproducts that have been found to damage cells and contribute to the development of certain diseases.
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Lutein Uses
Lutein is a type of vitamin that is called carotenoid. It's related to beta-carotene and vitamin A. Lutein-rich foods include spinach, egg yolks, broccoli, orange pepper, grapes, kale, corn, kiwi fruit, orange juice, zucchini and squash. Lutein is an essential component for eye health:
- Best absorbed when taken with a high-fat meal.
- One of two major carotenoids found in the human eye (macula and retina).
- Functions as a light filter to protect eye tissues from sunlight damage.
- Supplements can improve visual function in people suffering from age-related macular degeneration, the major cause of blindness.
- May help treat vision problems caused by long-term exposure to light from computer screens.
Side effects
Lutein and lutein supplements are likely to be safe when taken orally in appropriate amounts. Some patients, even those with skin cancer or cystic fibrosis, should be careful when considering lutein supplements. It is important to consult your doctor before taking any type of dietary supplement on a regular basis.
Dosage and Preparations
Consuming 6.9-11.7 mg of lutein per day seems to be safe in the diet. Lutein supplements have been used safely in study at levels of up to 15 mg per day for up to two years. Additionally, health experts state that consuming up to 20 mg of lutein from both diet and supplementation appears to be safe. High doses of lutein may cause carotenemia, which is a harmless skin yellowing.
Dosage of Lutein: 6-20 mg/day
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Lutein Benefits
Age-related macular degeneration (AMD)
People who eat higher quantities of lutein in their diet appear to have a lower risk of developing AMD. But people who already eat high amounts of lutein may not benefit from increasing their intake. Taking lutein supplements for up to 36 months may improve some of the symptoms of AMD. A greater improvement in symptoms may be seen when lutein is taken at doses greater than 10 mg for at least 1 year.
Cataracts
Eating higher quantities of lutein is associated with a reduced risk of developing cataracts. Taking vitamins containing lutein and zeaxanthin reduces the risk of developing cataracts requiring surgical removal in people who eat low amounts of lutein and zeaxanthin as part of their diet. Also, the use of lutein supplements appears to improve vision in older people who already have cataracts and are not there.
Cancer which starts in White Blood Cells
People who eat greater amounts of lutein in their diet or take lutein supplements may have a lower chance of developing non-Hodgkin lymphoma.
Interactions
- If your doctor has directed you to use this medicine, they may already be aware of possible drug interactions and may be monitoring you.
- Do not initiate, discontinue, or modify the dosage of any medication without consulting your doctor, healthcare provider, or pharmacist first.
- This information does not contain all possible interactions or adverse reactions.
- Inform your doctor or pharmacist about all the products you use before using this product.
- Maintain a record of all medications you take and disclose this information to your doctor and pharmacist.
- Consult your healthcare provider or doctor for further medical guidance or if you have any health inquiries.