Lutein is not nutritionally classified as an essential nutrient, but its effect on eye health is undeniable. Lutein is an essential carotenoid in our eyes. Lutein and zeaxanthin are the only carotenoids found at high concentrations in the macula of our eyes, and are very efficient at absorbing blue light. Because of this important role in absorbing blue light and limiting the amount of exposure to the eye, it protects the eye from light-induced oxidative damage and aging-related macular degeneration.
What is macula?
The macula is composed of light-sensitive cells and provides a sharp and central vision. It is also the most sensitive part of the retina of our eyes, which converts light into an electrical signal and later sends it through the optic nerve and brain to convert it into the image we see. Some of the common side effects of macular degeneration include blurred, distorted, or dark vision, as macular damage also affects the center of vision. Lutein and zeaxanthin play a role in protecting against this macular damage.
What is lutein?
As we age, vision is one of the health problems that we can quietly come to when we don't expect it. In addition to regular eye examinations, there are natural treatments that can help improve eye health. One of them is taking lutein. Lutein is a beneficial nutrient not only for the eyes but also for the skin and heart. This ingredient is a natural substance mainly present in dark leafy vegetables, fruits, and eggs. Lutein is a carotenoid, and a similar substance is zeaxanthin. These two nutrients are important for vision and are actually found in the macula that make up the back of the eye. It is known as a nutrient mainly related to vision, but in addition to the eyes, it can also help improve heart health and fight cancer. Scientists measuring circulating lutein levels in the blood have found that lutein can help neutralize toxins and free radicals that can be harmful to our bodies.
The difference between lutein and zeaxanthin
We know that lutein and zeaxanthin are closely related to each other, but few people know the difference between these two substances. Both are carotenoids, and are organic molecular types associated with vitamin A. They are very similar in chemical composition, but they are not completely identical. Lutein and zeaxanthin are part of a carotenoid group called xanthophyl. This kind of molecule has oxygen atoms in its chemical structure. Both lutein and zeaxanthin are present in our eyes. But the position inside the eyes is a little different. The concentration of zeaxanthin increases toward the center of the retina, and the concentration of lutein increases from the center to the edge of the retina. For this reason, when lutein is recommended, lutein azantin containing both rather than one nutrient is preferred.
lutein efficacy
The most commonly known lutein efficacy includes protection against aging-related eye diseases and improvement of heart health.
1. Eye Health
Taking lutein as a supplement can help maintain healthy vision because it is a natural ingredient for the eyes and is essential for vision health. In fact, lutein has long been an agent for eye health. Several research data suggest that lutein is a beneficial supplement for people with macular degeneration, a major cause of blindness in the world. According to a recent study in Finland, people with high lutein levels in their blood had a lower incidence of cataracts. Consistent with these results, other researchers reported lower incidence of cataracts in people with measurable levels of lutein in the blood, as well as simply following a lutein-rich diet or supplementary therapy. People who already suffer from cataracts have also been reported to benefit from lutein supplements. My eyesight improved after taking it for two years. However, this part seems to need more solid evidence through large-scale research.
2. Skin health
Many people want to enjoy summer days and warm weather, but sunlight brings harmful ultraviolet rays that can damage their skin. Ultraviolet rays can not only age humans but also endanger their lives in severe cases. Harmful UV rays are generally curable, but sometimes cause fatal skin cancer. Recently, scientists have observed the protective effect of lutein against ultraviolet rays, especially in the skin. According to a study, some of the damage effects of UVA and UVB can be blocked. It can also help to block adverse effects from harmful high-energy radiation. A randomized double-blind clinical trial found a noticeable improvement in skin tone, including elasticity and staining, after 12 weeks of supplementation of lutein. The same study reported that lutein could be a safe and effective option to help people with a variety of skin conditions, including spots, acne scars, freckles, and dark mushrooms.
3. Heart health
Cardiovascular disease is a major cause of death, and cardiovascular disease is the result of chronic inflammation that damages the walls of blood vessels in our bodies. These injuries promote clotting and stenosis of blood vessels, limiting the circulatory ability to nourish the heart. Nutrients such as free radicals and lutein capable of fighting toxins can help prevent such inflammatory damage. Studies in humans show that lutein supplements can lower inflammation that can harm the heart. Other factors affecting heart disease, such as cholesterol levels, fat metabolism, and insulin resistance indicators, may also be reduced due to lutein supplementation. In one study, patients with atherosclerosis taking lutein had lower levels of bad cholesterol and fat in their blood. In addition, these same patients showed better test measures for the carotid artery, and showed less stenosis of the major blood vessels supplying blood to the brain. Recent studies have shown that it can help slow down damage associated with the aging process and predict the risk of heart attack.