Wizard of Vitamins

Lutein Vitamin

What is Lutein?

Lutein is an antioxidant in the carotenoid family (a group of naturally occurring fat-soluble pigments found in plants). Lutein is the primary carotenoid present in the central area of the retina called the macula.

Lutein in Diets

Spinach, kale, collard greens, romaine lettuce, leeks, peas, and egg yolks are good sources of lutein.

Lutein Medicinal Treatments

Cataracts Macular degeneration

Known Consequences of Lutein Deficiency

While a deficiency has not been identified, people who eat more lutein-containing foods appear to be at lower risk of macular degeneration. One study found that adults with the highest dietary intake of lutein had a 57% decreased risk of macular degeneration compared with those people with the lowest intake, and of the carotenoids, lutein and zeaxanthin are most strongly associated with this protection. In a preliminary study, a similar link was suggested between low dietary lutein and increased risk of cataracts.

Lutein Recommended Dosages

People showing protection from macular degeneration have been reported to have eaten about 6 mg of lutein per day from food. Lutein, in supplemental form, should be taken with fat-containing food to improve absorption.

Lutein Side Effects

No adverse effects from lutein have been reported. Lutein functions together with zeaxanthin, another antioxidant found in the same foods and supplements as lutein. At the time of writing, there were no well-known drug interactions with lutein.