Cataract prevention with Lutein and Zeaxanthin

Posted on Mon, 30 Apr 12

The phytonutrients lutein and zeaxanthin have been shown to improve vision health and a study from Finland suggests they may reduce your risk of cataracts too.

A study of 1689 elderly subjects (aged 61-80 years) investigated the relationship between blood levels of lutein and zeaxanthin and age-related cataracts. They found that subjects in the highest levels of lutein and zeaxanthin had 42 and 41 % lower risks of nuclear cataract, respectively, compared with those with the lowest levels.

Lutein and zeaxanthin are a class of phytonutrients called carotenoids and are the only carotenoids known to concentrate in the retina and lens of your eye where they protect and improve your vision.

They are particularly high in green leafy vegetables (especially spinach, kale, and collard), egg yolks and goji berries. Lutein and zeaxanthin can also be taken as a daily dietary supplement at a suggested dose of 10 mg of each daily.

Reference:

Karppi J, Laukkanen JA, Kurl S. Plasma lutein and zeaxanthin and the risk of age-related nuclear cataract among the elderly Finnish population. Br J Nutr. 2011 Oct 18:1-7. [Epub ahead of print]