Affordable Healthcare Series- Lutein

LUTEIN 

Lutein and Zeaxanthin, along with vitamins E and C and beta-carotene are all believed to be potent and effective antioxidants.  It’s easy to incorporate lutein into a diet through dark green leafy, and bright yellow vegetables.  In the Archives of Ophthalmology (JAMA/January 2008), consumption of vegetables containing high levels of lutein and zeaxanthin can provide better protection against the development of cataracts.  The American Macular Degeneration Foundation has found results that Lutein protects the eyes against age-related macular degeneration (AMD), the most common cause of blindness in the elderly.  In a ten-year study of 35,551 women (Harvard 1993), researchers looked at the diets of women who had developed cataracts in comparison to the diets of women who remained cataract free.  The data reports that 2,031 women developed cataracts during this ten-year period, but women who consumed an average of 262 milligrams of Lutein and Zeaxanthin daily had an 18% decreased risk of development of the condition.  Lutein and Zeaxanthin are the only carotenoids that are present in the eye and may protect the eyes from damaging blue wavelengths.  Carotenoids are fat-soluble pigments found in certain plants.  Eat these foods as RAW as possible.  (1000 milligrams = 1 Gram) Grow these:

Kale! 17 mg per ¾ cup

Collard Greens 9 mg per ¾ cup

Spinach 8 mg per ¾ cup

Broccoli 2 mg per ¾ cup

Honorable Mention:  Kiwi Fruit!

Bottom Line- Very happy eyes and improved vision.