Posts Tagged ‘lutein and zeaxanthin’

Lutein is helpful to your vision

As the age increasing, our sights are inevitably getting worse. Normally, when people are 50 years old, some people may be a little younger, people’s vision begin to deteriorate. But now we find that lutein enriched multi-vitamins are helpful to defer people’s vision deterioration.

The aged-related macular degeneration or AMD for short is the main condition in this piece. AMD make a vision loss in the central retina. The reasons cause AMD are complex, but some reasons can be certain that eyes expose in the UV light for long time can make this problem. And a change in the concentration of the macular pigment that compound lutein and zeaxanthin are also believed to make AMD happen.

We can not stop getting old so that our sights are inevitably getting worse, but we can take some measures to delay or minimize the onset of AMD, some tips are as follows: try to manage your blood and avoid getting hypertension; control the cholesterol in a low level; avoid over weighted; do not have too much fat; and do not smoke. The smokers get the risk of AMD higher by two or three times than the normal people.

What is the most important, the more you intake of lutein, the less risk you take AMD, because its cousin compound zeaxanthin will help mitigate AMD. Enough macular pigment compounds are important in eyes health. People can get lutein from the foods such as Brussels sprouts, swiss chard, garden peas, corn, zucchini, broccoli, romaine lettuce, collard greens, turnip greens and kale.

When people get intake some kind of lutein enriched food that whether they get the proper amount of the nutrients is unknown, because it is a big molecule and it dissolves in organic solvents. So if people want to get recommended amount of lutein, they had better drink some kind of oil to help the lutein to get absorbed.

Another way to get proper lutein is to get lutein enriched multi-vitamins. People can easily get the quantity of the recommended nutrient. What is more, some good ones also comes with zeaxanthin which can make lutein have greater effectiveness. Also, they are more convenient.

Some good multi-vitamins also contain some other ingredients; some kind of ones may have about 100 ingredients. Also, accord to different requirements they can be made in different types. For instance, they can be tailored to respectively suit men and women. And good multi-vitamins also include some other good things.

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·Lutein and zeaxanthin for healthy eyes

Firmoo.com is the emerging online optical store selling high quality eyewear, such as prescription eyeglasses (single vision myopic glasses, reading glasses, bifocal and progressive eyeglasses etc.,), prescription sunglasses (with RX tinted lenses), prescription sports goggles. Firmoo guarantees lowest possible price in the market. Firmoo’s return and refund policy makes any purchase risk-free ones.

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MP density and AMD

Found in the macula, the macular pigment (MP) consists of two pigments or carotenoids: lutein and zeaxanthin. MP is most dense in the center of the macula named fovea. Moreover, these two pigments have different concentration is different parts of the eye. Lutein makes up 67% or greater of the MP in the peripheral retina. But in the central macula, zeaxanthin is the majority that it accounts for up to 75% of the MP.

MP in the eyes can protect them from harmful effects or free radicals caused by excessive exposure to UV rays and blue light. In detail, the two pigments of MP can help prevent age-related macular degeneration. In general, there are two ways to get enough lutein and zeaxanthin. A balanced diet with plenty of green vegetables and fruits as well as dietary supplements of the two nutrients can both offer enough MP.

As supplements are one of the main sources of MP, there are many studies focusing on these supplements as well as their effects. One study named enhancement of macular pigment density by oral lutein supplement (EMPOLS) conducted by researchers in Berne, Switzerland evaluates the relation between MP density and intake of supplements containing lutein. Participants of this study consume 10mg of lutein supplement product labeled VitaluxPlus on a daily basis.

Another observation study named the role of macular pigment in patients with age-related macular degeneration is also being carried out in Switzerland. Expected to complete in December 2009, this study has several purposes. First one is to assess how MP density and its distribution are associated with age-related macular degeneration. A second aim is to identify patients with low MP density. The study is still supposed to improve the early diagnosis of patients susceptible to AMD. Since low MP values are high risks of AMD, the observation study will develop a basis for dietary supplementation of lutein and zeaxanthin.

A balanced diet beneficial to eye health should contain many foods. Lutein is one of the critical elements. Many sources are rich in lutein, including corn, eggs, spinach, carrots, cantaloupe, oranges, red and orange peppers, kale, and collard greens and so on. In order to facilitate the absorption of lutein through the digestive tract, it is also necessary to eat some healthy fat in combination with those raw vegetables.

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·AMD treatments that are under trials and researches

·FDA-approved treatments for AMD

·Various ways to prevent AMD

Firmoo.com is the emerging online optical store selling high quality eyewear, such as prescription eyeglasses (single vision myopic glasses, reading glasses, bifocal and progressive eyeglasses etc.,), prescription sunglasses (with RX tinted lenses), prescription sports goggles. Firmoo guarantees lowest possible price in the market. Firmoo’s return and refund policy makes any purchase risk-free ones.

Article Source:http://www.articlesbase.com/vision-articles/mp-density-and-amd-1534204.html

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Ways to prevent cataracts formation

Astronauts receive higher daily dose of radiation, especially on a long mission such as the future Mars flight. As a result, cataracts may occur more frequently in these professionals. Currently, NASA and the National Eye Institute have been cooperating in developing a non-invasive instrument that can be used to detect very early signs of cataracts and monitor any progression.

The Alpha crystalline proteins in the lens are thought to help the lens maintain its refractive index, which allows the lens to focus light on the retina and offer clear vision. Oxidative stress may cause some proteins to break down in the lens, resulting in damaged proteins. Once these damaged proteins and other damaged cellular substances are crossly linked, they can lead to large clumps and form opacity in the lens. This opacity can gradually interfere the eyesight when they grow large enough and become cataracts.

This new instrument is supposed to evaluate the function of Alpha crystalline proteins and measure their levels as well as changes. Originally developed for space program, this measurement method can now be used to detect early signs of protein damage caused by oxidative stress. Age-related cataract, diabetes, and some neurological diseases are closed associated with oxidative stress.

Oxidative stress can be caused by UV radiation, drugs, chemicals, smoking, dietary components as well as other environmental factors. Alpha crystalline proteins in normal level can prevent these damage proteins from aggregating into clumps. However, Alpha crystalline level will be lowered due to natural aging. As a result, cataracts may develop.

As mentioned before, oxidative stress is the original cause in the lens of cataract formation. Currently, antioxidants are widely accepted to prevent cataracts, although their capacity is also unclear. In detail, lutein and zeaxanthin are two of the antioxidants that can reduce the incidence of cataract formation. A daily supplement containing antioxidants is helpful in preventing cataracts formation. These antioxidants can be gained from vegetables and fruits.

People should also control some risk factors such as smoking, obesity and eating a diet high in refined food with high sugar content. Smoking is believed to systemically decrease antioxidants in the body. Some experts also think that visible blue light can cause oxidative damage in the retina. UV protection by wearing sunglasses or UV-blocking contact lenses is also quite necessary.

More related articles:

·Causes for various congenital cataracts

·Cataract surgery preparation and outcome

Firmoo.com is the emerging online optical store selling high quality eyewear, such as prescription eyeglasses (single vision myopic glasses, reading glasses, bifocal and progressive eyeglasses etc.,), prescription sunglasses (with RX tinted lenses), prescription sports goggles. Firmoo guarantees lowest possible price in the market. Firmoo’s return and refund policy makes any purchase risk-free ones.

Article Source:http://www.articlesbase.com/vision-articles/ways-to-prevent-cataracts-formation-1534227.html

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Natural nutrients sources are better

Lutein is one of the carotenoids that are found in many plants and animals.  Other pigments in the same family include zeaxanthin, astaxanthin, lycopene, beta-carotene and alpha-carotene. Although lutein and zeaxanthin are most commonly thought to benefit the eyes, other pigments also have antioxidant activity in the human body.

During the past several years, most eye doctors or nutritionists recommended a single-ingredient lutein supplement. They think this kind of supplement is beneficial to the eyes, because lutein is most highly concentrated in the retina. And some lutein supplement promoters are airing ads on television. But latest studies have shown other results.

It is true that some earlier studies have proved the effectiveness of lutein supplement or the combination of lutein and zeaxanthin. These nutrients alone can reduce the risk of developing age-related macular degeneration. These studies have considerably promoted the prevalence of lutein supplements.

However, a recent study revealed something different. It compared the blood level of various antioxidants in people with and without macular degeneration. Researchers found that people with high levels did not have macular degeneration. The result is that the total blood levels of carotenoids offer proper protection against the disease.

Supplement products on the market are quire disappointing. A shocking fact is that some lutein supplements as well as vitamins are synthetic. These vitamins can be basically plastic. In particular, most commercial lutein products at low prices are synthetic.

As mentioned before, astaxanthin is another less common antioxidant associated with macular degeneration prevention. A wholesaler of natural astaxanthin named ALGA technologies reveals that nearly all commercial astaxanthin is made of petrochemical sources synthetically.

There is no doubt that these synthetic chemicals have no benefit to human body. But many customers are told to take these supplements on a daily basis. They believe that these lutein supplements as well as multi-vitamins are good for their health. In conclusion, natural sources of these nutrients should be chosen.

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·Discomfort caused by computer use

·Bates Method: A Simple Way to Improve Your Eyesight


Firmoo.com is the emerging online optical store selling high quality eyewear, such as prescription eyeglasses (single vision myopic glasses, reading glasses, bifocal and progressive eyeglasses etc.,), prescription sunglasses (with RX tinted lenses), prescription sports goggles. Firmoo guarantees lowest possible price in the market. Firmoo’s return and refund policy makes any purchase risk-free ones.

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What is Macular Degeneration?

Macular degeneration is one of the leading causes of blindness in the world. Most often, it’s an age related disease, and is often referred to as Age Related Macular Degeneration. This disease affects over 13 million people in America.

What does it do? Macular Degeneration slowly breaks down the macula, the light-sensitive area of the retina, which gives you sharp and clear vision. Because this is a mostly age related disease, people over 65 years are affected more. However, macular degeneration can, and does affect people at all ages. So it’s a good idea to keep your eyes healthy now.

Macular degeneration causes a slow loss of vision, and often, you’re not even aware of it for a period of time. Here are some sign of macular degeneration:

- You see a fuzzy or blurry area in your central vision.
– Your vision seems fuzzy or blurry.
– Straight lines look wavy to you.

Currently, it is unknown exactly what causes macular degeneration. However, macular degeneration tends to run in families, and smoking and drinking can increase your risk for this disease. Studies have shown that people who smoked more than a pack of cigarettes a day are 300% more likely to lose their vision than people who didn’t smoke.

The best prevention method known is getting enough of the essential nutrients. Vitamins A, C, and E reduce your risk for macular degeneration, and also slow down its progress if you’re already affected. If you are a heavy smoker, this will also increase your chance of having macular degeneration.

Drinking too much alcohol also affects your eyesight. Lutein and Zeaxanthin are carotenes that help reduce you risk for eye health problems. Studies have found that people who drink heavily have less Lutein and Zeaxanthin. So by drinking a lot of alcohol, you’re also putting your eyesight at risk.

High fat intake is associated with an increased risk of macular degeneration in both women and men. By reducing and limiting your consumption of fats can help reduce your risk of having macular degeneration. A healthy, balanced diet that includes more white meat and less red meat, and reducing consumption of whole milk, cheese, margarine, and butter can greatly reduce your fat intake.

(ArticlesBase ID #1189689)

Learn how you can naturally improve your eyesight, and begin to see better.

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