(http://www.PreserveMacForte.com) It has been demonstrated that lutein can help to ward off ailments such as age-related macular degeneration (AMD), atheroschlerosis and cataracts, reported TeleManagement recently.
According to the article, lutein, an antioxidant, is located not only in leafy green produce such as spinach, collard greens, kale and broccoli, but also in egg yolks. Antioxidants, meanwhile, are useful due to the fact that they protect cells from harm that can be caused by free radicals, which are harmful molecules. Free radicals, according to the article, occur naturally because of aging and metabolism as well as from tumor growth, inflammation and radiation. Lutein and other antioxidants inhibit the activity of free radicals, thereby protecting cells.
A number of studies have demonstrated that people who get a lot of lutein through their food intake can reduce their odds of getting AMD or cataracts, which happen to be the top two causes of vision impairment in adults. The eye’s most visually sensitive region, the macula, is made up of pigments containing lutein. According to the article, lutein in sufficient quantities seems to serve as a safeguard for the retina against damage from the sun, which could reduce the odds of getting AMD. The article added that lutein seems to safeguard the lens of the eye from damage caused by the sun, which consequently lessens the odds, or reduces the severity, of cataracts.
According to the article, experts who recommend the intake of lutein suggest that the daily amount to be consumed should range from five to 30 milligrams. Six milligrams of lutein, the equivalent of one-third cup of spinach that is cooked, is deemed to be sufficient. Thus far, research does not show any side effects stemming from lutein intake at moderate amounts. Toxicity, however, is possible if an excessive amount of lutein is consumed.