A number of studies now show that consuming lutein from rich food sources or through supplementation can increase macular pigment density and lower ARMD  (Age Related Macular Degeneration) risk, or at least slow its progression in those already afflicted by the disease. Lutein is a carotenoid (a natural pigment found in plant) which has been the focus of much of the research on ARMD and other degenerative eye diseases. 

Plants synthesize lutein to harvest light energy and protect against excessive light. Humans cannot synthesize lutein, we must get in it our diet (green and yellow vegetables) or through supplementation.  It now appears that humans also utilize these pigments to protect the eye from excessive interaction with the damaging effects of light. This function of these carotenoids has given them the nickname of “nature’s sunglasses” for the tissues of the eye. 

Lutein is found in almost all subsections of the eye, but occurs in concentrations nearly 1,000 times greater in the macula section of the retina than in any other tissue in the body. This extremely high concentration creates a yellow spot that is visible to the trained professional and is called the “macula lutea.”. Lutein absorbs the very high-energy and most damaging portions of the light spectrum (ultraviolet blue). This absorption of the high-energy spectrum is critical to the protection of the lens, retina, and macular portions of the eye.

In a study conducted in The Netherlands, researchers found that supplementation with lutein significantly increased the density of the macular pigment after just one month. The subjects in the study were given 10 mg of lutein for 12 weeks.  In this study, 10mg of lutein yielded a 500% increase in serum lutein levels in just four weeks and this level was maintained until after the lutein supplementation stopped.  In another study, Harvard researchers found that those with a higher dietary intake of carotenoids had a lower risk for ARMD.  120 Cap – 20mg Each