Lutein is a yellow pigmented carotenoid, fundamental to the proper functioning of the body, because it is unable to synthesize it, which is found in foods such as corn, cabbage, arugula, spinach, broccoli or egg.
Lutein contributes to eye health, prevents premature skin aging and helps protect the eyes and skin from free radicals, UV rays and blue light, so it is very important to eat a balanced diet rich in food. with this substance.
- In some cases.
- When the diet is not enough to replace lutein or when needs increase.
- The use of supplements may be justified.
Lutein is a very important carotenoid for eye health, DNA protection, skin health, immunity, anti-aging and wellness:
Lutein is very important for vision because it is the main component of the pigment of the macula, which is part of the retina of the eye.
In addition, lutein contributes to improving vision in people with cataracts and has a beneficial effect on DMAE (aging-induced macular degeneration), which is a progressive disease that affects the macula, the central region of the retina, linked to central vision, because it protects the retina from light damage and the development of visual disturbances. , filters blue light and neutralizes reactive oxygen species, thanks to its antioxidant action.
By its antioxidant action, lutein decreases oxidative damage in the upper layers of the skin, caused by ultraviolet rays, cigarette smoke and pollution, preventing premature aging.
Thanks to its powerful antioxidant properties, lutein also helps protect DNA, stimulates the immune system, thus contributing to the prevention of chronic diseases and certain cancers.
In addition, this carotenoid also helps to reduce inflammation, due to its ability to decrease inflammatory markers.
Discover the benefits of other essential carotenoids in your body
The best natural sources of lutein are green leafy vegetables such as kale, corn, arugula, watercress, mustard, broccoli, spinach, chicory, celery and lettuce.
Although less common, lutein is also found in orange-red tubers, fresh herbs and egg yolk.
The following table lists certain foods that contain lutein and their contents in 100 g:
Lutein supplements can offer important health benefits, if used as directed by your doctor. Examples include Floraglo Lutein, Lavitan Mais Viso, Vielut, Totavit and Neovite, for example.
Clinical studies in patients with eye diseases show that lutein supplements can restore lutein in the eye and help improve vision.
In general, the recommended dose of lutein is approximately 15 mg per day, which can help increase the density of the macular pigment, prevent age-related eye diseases, improve night and day vision and improve the visual function of patients. cataracts and DMI.