Eye health is a central component of our overall well-being. Two particularly important substances that are often mentioned in this context are lutein and zeaxanthin. These natural carotenoids play a crucial role in maintaining the health of our eyes.
Lutein and Zeaxanthin: What are they?
Lutein and zeaxanthin are members of the group of carotenoids, which are natural pigments found in many plants. These substances are particularly abundant in egg yolks and dark green leafy vegetables such as spinach, kale and broccoli. Both carotenoids are known for their antioxidant properties and play a central role in protecting the eyes.
The role of lutein and zeaxanthin in the retina
Lutein and zeaxanthin are present in high concentrations in the retina of the eye, especially in the macula. The macula is the part of the retina responsible for central vision and the detection of fine details. These carotenoids act as natural photoprotective filters, protecting the eyes from the harmful effects of blue light and UV rays.
Antioxidant properties
A significant benefit of lutein and zeaxanthin is their ability to act as antioxidants. Antioxidants neutralize free radicals created by environmental factors such as UV radiation and pollution. Free radicals can cause cell damage that can lead to degenerative eye diseases. Lutein and zeaxanthin help prevent this damage and maintain eye health.
Health Benefits of Lutein and Zeaxanthin
protection against age-related macular degeneration (AMD)
One of the best-known benefits of lutein and zeaxanthin is their contribution to the prevention of age-related macular degeneration (AMD). AMD is a leading cause of vision loss in older adults. A meta-analysis of eight randomized controlled trials (RCTs) involving a total of 1176 AMD patients showed that supplementation with lutein and zeaxanthin was significantly associated with improvements in visual acuity and contrast sensitivity. These studies also showed that increased intake of these carotenoids resulted in a significant reduction in logMAR (a measure of visual acuity).
Improved contrast sensitivity and glare recovery
The studies mentioned also showed that lutein and zeaxanthin improved contrast sensitivity at all spatial frequencies tested. This means that the ability to detect differences in brightness between objects and their background was increased. An improvement in glare recovery was also observed, meaning that the eyes were able to adapt more quickly to changing lighting conditions.
relationship with macular pigment density
Another important finding of the meta-analysis was the association between the post-interventional increase in macular pigment density and the improvements in visual acuity and contrast sensitivity. This suggests that enrichment of the macula with lutein and zeaxanthin directly contributes to improving visual performance.
sources of lutein and zeaxanthin
To reap the health benefits of lutein and zeaxanthin, it is important to consume these carotenoids regularly through your diet. The best food sources include:
- Dark green leafy vegetables: spinach, kale, broccoli
- Eggs: The egg yolk in particular is rich in lutein and zeaxanthin
- Peppers: Yellow and orange peppers
- Corn: Rich in zeaxanthin
- Peas: A good source of lutein
Sources:
- Effects of lutein and zeaxanthin on aspects of eye health - PubMed (nih.gov)
- Lutein and zeaxanthin supplementation and association with visual function in age-related macular degeneration - PubMed (nih.gov)
NOMOADULT® AMD: Supporting eye health
With NOMOADULT® AMD we have developed a dietary supplement that is specifically aimed at supporting eye health. NOMOADULT® AMD contains the natural components lutein and zeaxanthin, which are extracted from the flowers of the Tagetes plant. These substances are essential for the retina of the eye.
Additional ingredients and their benefits
In addition to lutein and zeaxanthin, NOMOADULT® AMD also contains antioxidants in the form of vitamin C and vitamin E as well as important trace elements such as copper and zinc gluconate.
- Vitamin C and Vitamin E: These vitamins are powerful antioxidants that help protect the eyes from oxidative damage.
- Copper: Important for the function of enzymes involved in antioxidant defense.
- Zinc Gluconate: Zinc plays an essential role in maintaining retinal health and supporting the immune system.
Here you can find our product: NOMOADULT® AMD – Nomosan Nutraceuticals
If you want to learn more about the eye and various eye diseases, click here:
- The eye: structure and function of one of the most important sensory organs – Nomosan Nutraceuticals
- Cataracts: Causes, Symptoms and Treatment – Nomosan Nutraceuticals
- Glaucoma: An invisible enemy of vision – Nomosan Nutraceuticals
- Dry Eye (Sicca Syndrome) – Causes, Symptoms and Treatment Options – Nomosan Nutraceuticals
- Nyctalopia and the power of anthocyanins – Nomosan Nutraceuticals
