Lutein
is in the carotenoid
family, as is the better-known beta carotene.
Carotenoids are the natural colorant or pigments found in dark green leafy
vegetables such as spinach and in egg yolks.
Lutein levels correlate with healthy eyes,
apparently reducing the
risk of macular degeneration. A correlation is also
seen with higher lutein levels and healthy skin.
Lutein is an
antioxidant that appears to quench or reduce harmful free
radicals in various parts of the body. Free radicals can play a role in a
variety of chronic diseases, including cataracts and macular degeneration.
Lutein also filters the high-energy, blue wavelengths of light from the
visible-light spectrum. Blue light, in both indoor lighting and sunlight,
is believed to induce oxidative stress and possible free-radical damage in
human organs exposed to light, such as the eyes and skin. Blue light is
not the same as the commonly known ultraviolet A and ultraviolet B
wavelengths of the invisible spectrum.
Most Americans get insufficient lutein in their diets. Research
suggests that 6 to 20 mg of lutein per day are needed to realize its health
benefits.
Lutein Plus+ contains maximum amounts of Lutein, along with Zeaxanthin, another
powerful carotenoid antioxidant that has been shown to be highly
beneficial and protective to the eyes. Further increasing the antioxidant
properties are Bilberry and Vitamin E.
