Indications and Uses

Lutein can lower the risk of age related vision loss, which causes gradual loss of central vision. Age related vision loss or age related macular degeneration (AMD) is caused by steady damage of the retina. Lutein probably acts by preventing oxidative damage of the retina cells. Lutein is concentrated in the central part of the retina, called the macula. In the macula are yellow pigments (macular pigments composed of zeaxanthin and lutein) which protect the retina from damage of the photo-oxidative affect of blue light.

Lutein can also reduce the risk for artery diseases. Studies have shown that persons with the highest lutein intake showed the lowest artery wall thickening. Lutein also reduces the oxidation of LDL cholesterol thereby reducing the risk of artery clogging.

Lutein can also reduce the risk of skin cancer and sunburn. Under influence of sunlight, free radicals are formed inside the skin. These free radicals can damage the DNA of cells. Lutein can protect against the damaging effects of UV-B radiation.