Lutein Benefits More than Just the Eyes

Lutein is a yellow-orange carotenoid synthesized only by plants, found naturally in fruits and vegetables, as well as in animal fats and egg yolks. It has excellent antioxidant properties and can protect cells from oxidative damage. As one of the two main carotenoids found in the human eye, lutein has long been celebrated for its eye-protective properties. It is thought to function as a light filter that protect eye tissue from sunlight damage. However, a growing body of research suggests that lutein's role goes beyond eye health. It also offers numerous benefits for brain, skin and heart health.

What are the health benefits of lutein?

Lutein has a variety of health benefits, including but not limited to the following.

For eye health
The macular pigment protects macular cells from the potentially harmful effects of high-energy blue light, and lutein has been shown to protect the eye by increasing the density of macular pigment. In addition, clinical studies have shown that the antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties of lutein provide protection and alleviation of ocular diseases such as cataracts, diabetic retinopathy, myopia.

For brain health
Lutein, the main carotenoid found in the human brain, is concentrated in the lipid layer of brain cells and helps stabilize cell membranes and protects important fats from oxidative damage. Its anti-inflammatory properties enhance blood flow to the brain and improve communication between neurons. In addition, lutein has been found to increase Brain Derived Neurotrophic Factor (BDNF), which plays an important role in neuronal growth, as well as promoting brain plasticity, which is essential for learning and memory.

For skin health
As an antioxidant, lutein helps neutralize free radicals in the skin and reduces inflammation. In addition, lutein helps to protect the skin by filtering out high-energy visible wavelengths of light ( ultraviolet), and increasing lutein intake may reduce the overall risk of skin cancer. In some studies, lutein may also improve skin elasticity, hydration, and skin tone, especially when used topically and orally.

For heart health
Lutein is also beneficial for heart health, as its powerful antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties help protect arteries from damage and reduce the chances of heart disease.

How to get lutein?

Getting enough lutein is essential for good health. Lutein cannot be produced by the body, so we must add appropriate sources of lutein to our diets to reap the benefits. High levels of lutein are found in dark green vegetables such as kale, spinach, parsley, peas, broccoli, and lettuce. It is also found in other green vegetables and yellow-orange foods, including corn, egg yolks, kiwi, cantaloupe, and red peppers. Lutein is also taken in supplements. 6 to 20 milligrams of lutein per day is considered the amount necessary to reduce the risk of macular degeneration. In addition, as lutein is fat-soluble, it is best absorbed when consumed with fat, such as olive oil or butter.

Lutein

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