Lutein is a natural yellow pigment found in plants. Preparations containing lutein are recommended for people who overuse their eyesight, e.g. long work at the computer or watching TV. But not only they will benefit from this supplement. Lutein protects the eyes, sharpens memory and beautifies the skin. What do you need to know before using lutein?

Luteinis a necessary substance in our body. However, it must be supplied from the outside. Large amounts ofluteincontain green vegetables (cabbage, Brussels sprouts, spinach) and egg yolk.

Unfortunately, it is a capricious substance and loses its properties under the influence of long cooking or even chopping vegetables with a metal knife.

In our body, the most lutein accumulates in the macula - the structure of the eye responsible for color vision and image sharpness.Lutein deficiencyworsens the functioning of the macula.

Luteina - what is it?

Lutein is an organic chemical compound belonging to xanthophylls - plant pigments from the group of carotenoids. In spring and summer, it is masked in nature by a green plant dye - chlorophyll, it becomes visible in autumn, when the leaves turn yellow.

Lutein: Benefits

Lutein acts as a natural filter that protects the eye against UVA and UVB radiation. It is also a powerful antioxidant.

The consequence of its deficiency may be eye diseases, especially AMD, i.e. macular degeneration. People at risk of this disease should take lutein prophylactically.

Similarly, it can be used by people working with eyesight - especially in rooms with artificial lighting.

Lutein should be taken by people who frequently go to the solarium, spend a lot of time in the sun, follow a diet low in fruit and vegetables, and overuse strong coffee and tea, and smoke tobacco.

Preparations containing lutein are also recommended for people genetically at risk of glaucoma or cataracts.

It is also recommended for diabetic and hypertensive retinopathy and allergic conjunctivitis.

Lutein is good not only for the eyes. It also has a positive effect on the appearance of the skin - it improves its hydration and tones it, normalizes the work of the sebaceous glands.

It was recently discovered that luteinfound in breast milk and umbilical cord blood. Scientists speculate that it may affect the course of pregnancy, as well as the he alth of the unborn child.

It is said that it can also protect against memory lapses that result from the aging of the body. However, this is only research, insufficiently documented.

Lutein: possible side effects

The only observed side effect resulting from the use of preparations containing lutein is browning of the skin. This is carotenemia, i.e. an excessive concentration of carotene in the blood.

A similar effect occurs when you consume carrots too much or drink carrot juice too often.

Lutein: dosage

Basically, the dose of lutein, the intake of which may contribute to maintaining the eyesight in good condition, has not been precisely defined. Usually, however, about 6 mg a day is recommended.

It is best to always follow the manufacturer's recommendations on how to take the supplement. Most preparations containing lutein are multi-component and their excessive consumption may have a negative effect on our he alth.

This will be useful to you

Drugs that contain lutein

  • A-Z Vision
  • Aronia with lutein
  • Biolutein
  • Blue Berry
  • Oculobon
  • Centrum A-Z Silver 50 +
  • Doppel Herz for the eyes
  • Klarin Aktiv with lutein
  • Lutamax
  • Lutezan
  • Maxivision Total
  • Nursea sight forte
  • Nutrof Total
  • Ocuvite Lutein Forte

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Category:

Eye diseases and vision disorders