Macular Degeneration Risk is Reduced in Adults with High Intakes of Lutein & Zeaxanthin
Age-Related Macular Degeneration (AMD) is a degenerative eye disease that causes damage to the macula (central retina) of the eye, impairing central vision. In a recent large study, participants with the highest intakes of the carotenoids lutein and zeaxanthin had significantly lower risk of AMD compared to those with low intakes.
Age-Related Macular Degeneration (AMD) is the most common cause of vision loss in developed countries. This degenerative eye disease causes damage to the macula (central retina) of the eye, impairing central vision. People affected by Age-Related Macular Degeneration have difficulty reading, driving and performing activities that require clear central vision.
A report published in the journal Archives of Ophthalmology adds more evidence to support previous research showing that the carotenoids zeaxanthin and lutein are protective against AMD. Dark green leafy vegetables are the primary dietary sources of lutein and zeaxanthin, but they are also found in some other colorful fruits and vegetables. Average dietary intake in the U.S. is only 2 mg/day, far below the 6 mg/day level most studies indicate as a minimum needed to reduce the risk of AMD.
In the current report, members of the Age-Related Eye Disease Study (AREDS) Research Group evaluated the diets of 4,519 AREDS participants aged 60 to 80 years. Retinal photographs were used to divide the subjects into five categories of macular disease severity, from individuals with little or no evidence of macular degeneration (the control group) to severe, neovascular disease. Dietary questionnaires were analyzed for lutein, zeaxanthin, beta-carotene, lycopene, and other nutrient levels.
Participants whose intake of lutein and zeaxanthin were greatest had a significantly lower risk of AMD than those whose intake was least, and were less likely to have large or extensive intermediate drusen, the deposits on the retina or optic nerve that characterize the disease. No risk reductions were associated with the other nutrients examined in this study.
Article Source The Relationship of Dietary Carotenoid and Vitamin A, E, and C Intake With Age-Related Macular Degeneration in a Case-Control Study: AREDS Report No. 22 Age-Related Eye Disease Study Research Group. Arch Ophthalmol 2007;125:1225-1232.
USANA Visionex™ is a comprehensive formula designed to maintain long-term eye health and to promote acute vision.
Our eyes are constantly exposed to harmful environmental factors such as air pollution, dryness, and oxidative damage from sunlight. We owe it to ourselves to do everything we can to maintain optimal vision.
Visonex contains guaranteed levels of lutein and zeaxanthin - the only carotenoinds primarily found in the macular and lens of the eye. The biological functions of lutein and zeaxanthin are related to their antioxidant properties and the absorption of the UV light, protecting retinal cells from the UV damage. Visionex also contains generous amounts of other important nutrients necessary for healthy eyes, including vitamin C, bilberry extract, and zinc. Vitamin C is a potent water-soluble antioxidant. Bilberry extract is another potent antioxidant rich in anthocyanosides, and help to support healthy capillary function and integrity. Zinc is among one of the most important trace elements in human nutrition and is a cofactor for more than 300 enzymes used by the body including those essential for healthy vision. Zinc deficiency is sometimes associated with night blindness.
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