Nowadays, we hear the term Lutein in many advertisements and even among personal conversations. There are also many food supplements which contain lutein or lutein alone that are available in the market. Lutein is a yellow to orange plant pigment naturally found among fruits and vegetables. It is considered to be a carotenoid. Like any other carotenoids, lutein is important for the health of the eyesight. Carotenoid is necessary in the body because it is a precursor of vitamin A. Inside the body, carotenoid molecules are metabolized into vitamin A. Vitamin A is needed in the formation of retinaldehyde which is the main component of rhodopsin.

Rhodopsin is a chemical that allows our eyes to react and accommodate to light variations. Rhodopsin is stored in the rods and cones of the retina. These are the photoreceptors that make vision possible. When light strikes the rods and cones, a transient excitatory process of electrical energy is stimulated. The impulse will then be sent to the occipital cortex in the brain traveling through the optic nerve. The impulse will be processed and thus perceived as vision. An insufficient supply of vitamin A or any of its precursors may result to poor light adaptation and perception in low light areas or night blindness.

Lutein is related to beta-carotene and vitamin A. Like these compounds, lutein is also stored in the retinas of the eyes. It is considered as a color pigment of the human eye. It also filters light thus protecting the delicate tissues of the eyes and also the skin from sunlight damage. If normal levels of lutein are maintained, it may lower the risk of developing cataracts and macular degeneration. It can also help prevent or slow down the progression of atherosclerosis which is one of the primary precipitating factors of cardiovascular diseases.

The richest sources of lutein are carrots, squashes, oranges, and other orange and yellow fruits and vegetables. Fortunately, foods rich in lutein are not only limited to yellow or orange – colored fruits and vegetables. Other good sources also include broccoli, spinach, kale, corn, pepper, kiwi fruit, grapes, zucchini and other dark green leafy vegetables. Egg yolks are also great sources of lutein. Lutein is absorbed best when it is taken with a high-fat meal.

Research suggests that a minimum of 6-10 mg per day of lutein is required. But since lutein is available only in trace amounts in fruits and vegetables, even if you eat a balanced diet, you would need a large bowl of fresh spinach to get about 6 mg of lutein. Good thing, Lutein is widely available in many nutritional supplements and fortified foods and beverages for individuals who want to supplement their dietary intake of lutein, making their diet even better for their eyes and skin.

There have been neither reported side effects of lutein nor any adverse health reports from interactions between lutein and medications. However, the safest measure to be aware about possible interactions between your medication and any supplements is to seek medical opinion from a qualified healthcare provider before beginning lutein supplementation.

Lutein is available at your local or internet vitamin store in capsule, tablet, and chewable tablet forms. Look for it in quality brands like Solaray.

Author Bio: If you need a Eye health boost, give Lutein a try risk free at VitaNet ®, LLC Vitamin Store. http://vitanetonline.com/

Category: Wellness, Fitness and Diet
Keywords: Lutein, Fight Macular Degeneration, Improve Eye Site, Protect The eyes from Ultra violate Rays