Lutein & zeaxanthin May Cut Cataract Risk

Age-related macular degeneration (AMD) and cataracts are two ocular conditions that have been shown to be prevented by lutein, a carotenoid antioxidant found in dark green, leafy vegetables such as spinach, kale and collard greens.

One study found that Women who get more lutein, zeaxanthin, and vitamin E are less likely to develop cataracts than women who skimp on those nutrients. The study on cataracts and nutrients included more than 35,000 middle-aged U.S. women who were followed for 10 years, on average.

Lutein is highly concentrated in the macula, a small area of the retina responsible for central vision, and high visual acuity. It is also thought that lutein filters blue wavelengths of light from the visible-light spectrum. Blue light, is believed to induce oxidative stress and possible free-radical damage in human organs exposed to light such as the eyes.

Lutein is an antioxidant, belonging to the carotenoid family. Lutein and zeaxanthin can be found in dark green leafy vegetables such as spinach, collards, kale and broccoli, various fruits and corn. Egg yolks are also sources of lutein.