LUTEIN (FOR EYE SIGHT)

Lutein is called a carotenoid vitamin. It is related to beta-carotene and vitamin A. Foods rich in lutein include broccoli, spinach, kale, corn, orange pepper, kiwi fruit, grapes, orange juice, zucchini, and squash. Lutein is absorbed best when it is taken with a high-fat meal.

Uses

Likely Effective for:

Lutein deficiency. Taking lutein by mouth is effective for preventing lutein deficiency.

Possibly Effective for:

An eye disease called age-related macular degeneration (AMD). Population studies suggest that people who consume higher amounts of lutein in their diet have a reduced risk of developing AMD. However, increasing dietary intake of lutein might not reduce the risk of AMD in people who already have a high intake of lutein. Taking lutein supplements for up to 12 months can improve some symptoms of AMD, but it does not seem to prevent AMD from becoming worse. Research on the use of lutein together with other ingredients shows conflicting results.
Cataracts. Some studies suggest that eating higher amounts of lutein might decrease the risk of developing cataracts. Also, early research suggests that taking lutein three times weekly for up to 2 years can improve vision in elderly people with cataracts.

Warnings

We currently have no warnings for Lutein.

Side Effects

Lutein is LIKELY SAFE when taken by mouth appropriately. Consuming 6.9-11.7 mg/day of lutein as part of the diet appears to be safe. Lutein supplements have been used safely in studies in doses up to 15 mg daily for up to 2 years.

Precautions

Precautions

Pregnancy and breast-feeding: Lutein is LIKELY SAFE when used in the amounts found in food.

Cystic fibrosis: People with cystic fibrosis might not absorb some carotenoids from food very well, and often have low blood levels of lutein. How much the body absorbs from lutein supplementation might also be decreased in people with cystic fibrosis.

Interactions

We currently have no information for Lutein interactions.

Dosing & Brands

For reducing the risk of cataracts and age-related macular degeneration (AMD): 6 mg of lutein per day, either through diet or using supplements. People consuming 6.9 to 11.7 mg of lutein per day through diet had the lowest risk of developing AMD and cataracts.

For reducing symptoms of AMD: 10 mg per day of lutein supplements.

There is 44 mg of lutein per cup of cooked kale, 26 mg/cup of cooked spinach, and 3 mg/cup of broccoli.

Available brands:

GNC Natural Brand Lutein (GNC)
Ocuvite Lutein (Bausch & Lomb)
Optein (Herbs & Nature)
Opthex (Prosel)
Vitaclear (Ashford)