Lutein is a pigment that may help slow down or prevent a number of eye diseases, such as cataracts and macular degeneration. Many foods contain lutein, such as leafy, dark green vegetables like collard greens, kale and spinach, but other foods also contain lutein. These may include yellow corn, green peas and carrots. Knowing the benefits of lutein in eye disease prevention will help you make healthy choices that could help you maintain healthy eyes and good vision.
Macular Degeneration
Your macula is a spot of tissue that sits in the central part of your retina that covers the inner, back of your eye. This tissue works with other parts of your eye to provide you with the straight-ahead vision necessary for watching television and reading. If the cells that make up your macula start to break down, an eye disease called macular degeneration, this can lead to permanent loss of your central vision. For most people, treatment does not restore vision. Lutein may help prevent macular degeneration. As of 2010, the National Eye Institute is continuing a study to evaluate the possible benefits of 10 mg of lutein each day in preventing macular damage.
Cataracts
Behind the visible, colored part of your eye, called the iris, you have a natural lens that helps direct light to the back of your eye. Protein and water primarily make up the lens, and, with age, these proteins may start to break down, forming clumps that turn the clear lens cloudy with a somewhat yellow appearance. These changes to the lens, called a cataract, result in vision changes that typically prevent people from performing daily activities, such as driving. The only way to restore vision is with eye surgery that removes the cloudy lens. The antioxidant properties of lutein may help slow down or prevent the destruction of the proteins in the lens.
Considerations
Many foods contain lutein, or you may increase your intake of lutein through oral supplements. Before you make changes to your diet or supplements, talk with your doctor to determine if lutein is appropriate for you. If you take certain medications, such as blood thinners, your doctor may recommend that you avoid a high intake of lutein-rich foods, such as dark green, leafy vegetables. The additional nutrients provided in these foods may interfere with treatment and put you at a greater risk for bleeding.
References
- American Optometric Association: Lutein and Zeaxanthin
- All About Vision: Lutein and Zeaxanthin: Eye and Vision Benefits
- National Eye Institute: Facts About Age-Related Macular Degeneration
- MayoClinic.com: Cataracts
- National Institutes of Health: Important Information to Know When You Are Taking: Coumadin and Vitamin K
