Feed Your Eyes with Lutein?

by Nutrition Focus

In yet another study of a supplement tested for effects on vision, the latest indicates that lutein improved vision of people with age-related macular degeneration (AMD). Foods richest in lutein are spinach, kale, collards and turnip greens. People took supplements with 10 mg of lutein, the same amount that can be gotten from eating three ounces of cooked spinach.

Ninety patients with AMD were divided into three groups and treated for one year. The groups received lutein, lutein with antioxidants and vitamins, or a placebo pill. Both groups getting lutein showed moderate improvements in vision. The study was published in the April 2004 issue of Optometry.

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HERE'S WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW:

This was a small, relatively short study. It is important to be aware that the results apply only to progression of AMD. This does nothing more than suggest lutein may delay progression of the condition; not even that it delays onset. An important issue is lutein is almost always found naturally in combination with zeaxanthin. What happens if zeaxanthin has strong health effects and lutein supplements decrease your body's ability to use the other pigment? We just don't have the information to recommend lutein pills.

Copyright 2004 Nutrition News Focus Inc.

Tags: vision vitamins