Lutein is the green pigment in plants. Besides its role to give the color of green and dark-green vegetables and fruits, lutein also improves eyesight, the bone system and the teeth and protects and prevents our organism from cancer. Lutein is found in green vegetables and fruits, such as: cabbage, lettuce, broccoli, endives, asparagus, spinach, nettles, kiwi fruits, green apples, beans, peas, parsley, pepper grass, green tea etc.

Lutein is found all throughout our body, but it is very concentrated in the macula of the eyes. That is why it significantly inhibits the risk of developing macular degeneration of the eyes and is much recommended for individuals that have eye problems and also for the ones that make extensive use of their visual ability such as, for example, people that are over-exposed to sun rays or computer screens on a regular basis.

Benefits of Lutein: The benefits of lutein to the health of the eyes are undisputed. Lutein and zeaxanthin supplements are recommended to prevent cataracts, age related macular degeneration and to counteract the effects of the sun and oxidative stress on the interior of the eyes, as well as a treatment for people who have been diagnosed with macular degeneration. The recommended zeaxanthin and lutein dosage varies, depending on a person’s age, overall health and current condition of the eye. While no USRDA or recommended daily intake has been established, because of the known benefits of lutein, government officials have done surveys to determine the average daily intake of this antioxidant. It is estimated that most Americans consume about 1 to 2 mg of lutein per day. The most common dietary sources are dark green leafy vegetables.

Sources for Lutein:
The best source for pure lutein and zeaxanthin supplements is the marigold flower. Some supplements contain lutein “esters”, but it is unclear if the benefits of lutein esters are the same as those of pure lutein. In order for a supplement to provide the purported health benefits, the ingredients must be “bioavailable” or available for use by the human body.