12/02/2024
why Excellence Nutri Juice
it has Lutein
Lutein is a xanthophyll, or an oxygen-containing carotenoid. Carotenoids are responsible for the naturally occurring yellow, orange, and red pigments found in foods. They are considered an essential nutrient — since our bodies can’t make them, we must get them through food
There are two types of carotenoids. Xanthophylls, which contain oxygen and usually contribute to yellow pigments, and carotenes, which don’t contain oxygen and tend to contribute to orange pigments.
Lutein is found in the retina of the eye, along with another xanthophyll, zeaxanthin. Because these carotenoids are found concentrated in the back of the eye, they are known as macular pigments and may be beneficial for eye health .
Lutein has antioxidant properties that may also play a role in cognitive function, heart health, and the prevention of some cancers, though more studies are needed.
Benefits of lutein
Eye health
The Age-Related Eye Disease Study (AREDS) is an often-cited study on lutein and eye health. Researchers looked at specific formulations of supplements and their impact on age-related macular degeneration (AMD).
Another eye-health plus for lutein is that it’s an antioxidant. Inflammation and oxidative stress are related to eye conditions such as glaucoma, diabetic retinopathy, and macular degeneration.
Lutein has antioxidant properties, and studies have found it to be significantly effective in the prevention of these eye conditions .
Additionally, research suggests that lutein is important for babies’ eye development during pregnancy and for vision throughout their lifespan, though more research is needed to determine the optimal dose for pregnant and breastfeeding women.
Lastly, lutein may be an effective treatment for dry eyes, though more studies in this area are needed .
Heart health
High dietary intakes of lutein, as well as high levels of circulating lutein, have been associated with better heart health.
One study associated lutein improvements in clinical markers in patients with heart disease. Researchers believe the anti-inflammatory properties were beneficial and suggest continued research in this area.
Another study found that daily supplementation of 20 mg of lutein for 3 months was associated with a decrease in cholesterol and triglyceride levels, both of which are known risk factors for heart disease .
However, research on lutein and heart health is mixed overall, and some studies have found no correlation at all. More research, specifically in humans, is needed to determine lutein’s role in heart health .
Cancer
Lutein, along with other carotenoids, may improve cancer prognosis.
One study found that a high intake of lutein, along with other nutrients found in fruits and vegetables, was associated with a decreased risk of pancreatic cancer.
Additionally, lutein, along with other carotenoids, may be protective against breast cancer as well as head and neck cancer .
Overall, research on lutein and its benefits relating to cancer is promising but not definitive, and more human studies are needed .
Brain health
Research indicates that a high dietary intake and high circulating levels of lutein are associated with both better cognitive performance and enhanced memory.
One study found that a daily supplement including 10 mg of lutein along with zeaxanthin and meso-zeaxanthin was effective in improving memory over the course of 1 year .
Carotenoids overall may play a protective role in preventing neurodegenerative diseases, too, meaning they may help promote brain health in older age, though the research is still mixed.
