Eye Health Benefits of Lutein and Zeaxanthin

Eat for Good Eye Health

It is important to protect your vision and practice good eye care. As we age, our eyes become more at risk for certain conditions. Cataracts and age-related macular degeneration (AMD) affect 10 million Americans.[i] When it comes to protecting against eye-related conditions and diseases, what a person eats can support eye health and prevent some of the risk factors.  Lutein and zeaxanthin, two nutrients found in certain foods, have been found to keep certain eye conditions at bay.

Lutein and zeaxanthin are yellow organic substances classified as carotenoids, which play a large role in photoprotection and coloration in plants. Both substances are strong antioxidants. The best foods to find lutein and zeaxanthin in are leafy green vegetables, as well as yellow fruits and vegetables. These substances offer many health benefits, but specifically, they can protect against eye damage and vision loss.

Every day, our eyes are exposed to light and oxygen. This leads to the production of damaging oxygen free radicals. Lutein and zeaxanthin neutralize these free radicals so they cannot damage your eye cells.[ii]

In fact, lutein and zeaxanthin are believed to help with several conditions, including:

• Age-related macular degeneration (AMD)
• Cataracts
• Diabetic retinopathy
• Eye detachment
• Uveitis[iii]

With many research advancements, the eye health field has come a long way. The more we learn, the more steps we can take to protect our eyes. Don’t neglect your eye health! Incorporate foods with lutein and zeaxanthin, or even consider taking a supplement geared toward eye care.

If you are in need of vision correction, you may be considering LASIK eye surgery. In order to be a strong candidate for LASIK, you must have healthy eyes. This is just one more reason to be proactive and support your eye health by eating healthful foods containing lutein and zeaxanthin.

If you are interested in learning more about your Laser eye surgery options, schedule a free consultation at a location near you.

[i] American Optometric Association. (2019). Lutein & Zeaxanthin. AOA.org. Retrieved from https://www.aoa.org/patients-and-public/caring-for-your-vision/diet-and-nutrition/lutein

[ii] Koushan, K., Rusovici, R., Wenhua, L., Lee, F. R., & Chalam, K. (2013). The Role of Lutein in Eye-Related Disease. Nutrients. 5(5). Retrieved from https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3708350/

[iii] O’Brien, S. (2018). Lutein and Zeaxanthin: Benefits, Dosage and Food Sources. Healthline.com. Retrieved from: https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/lutein-and-zeaxanthin#eyes