An important new study just published shows that supplements of natural lutein result in increases of the macular pigment which may play a role in reducing the risk of age-related macular degeneration (AMD), the leading cause of blindness among the elderly.
Researchers from the Netherlands found that lutein supplements increased macular pigment optical density. The macular pigment is important because it may protect the macular region of the eye, the small central part of the retina essential for fine, detailed vision. In the study, eight male volunteers took lutein supplements derived from marigolds providing a daily dose of 10 mg of lutein for a period of 12 weeks.
Earlier studies have shown an inverse association between a risk of AMD and lutein intakes (spinach and corn are good sources) and blood levels. This study provides additional evidence that lutein supplementation increases macular pigment levels which are thought to protect against AMD.
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