Carotenoids

Lutein   Astaxanthin   Zeaxanthin

Carotenoids are the blue-light absorbing plant pigments are found in red and yellow plants, powered by photosynthesis as well as some kinds of fungus and bacteria. They are valuable antioxidants that help protect the eye from many eye diseases. These antioxidants are used throughout the body, but are found in the highest quantities in the retina or macula of the eye.

All of the carotenoids are important for maintaining macular health.

Lutein

Lutein is a yellow pigment (from latin meaning, "yellow") which is found in the eye's macula and lens of the eyes. It is created only by plants and is found in animal foods only because they eat plants. Lutein is an antioxidant that helps protect the eyes from the free radical damage that UV and blue light from sunlight causes. Lutein is concentrated in the peripheral edges of the retina. It works most effectively as a supplement in combination with zeaxanthin.1 In addition to supporting the retina, lutein is important for a healthy lens.

  • Food sources: corn, kale, spinach, collards and mustard greens, lettuce and salad greens, brussel sprouts, broccoli, and eggs.
  • Daily Need: 6-20mg/daily
  • Related Conditions: Macular degeneration , cataracts

Lutein


Pure Focus
Liquid based formula absorbed sublingually for vision health.


Dr. Grossman's Advanced Eye & Vision Support Formula

Astaxanthin

Astaxanthin is a fat-soluble carotenoid which, in its value as an antioxidant is ten times more powerful than beta-carotene, and up to 500 times stronger than vitamin E. It must be taken in through food or in a supplement since it is not made by the body.

  • Food sources: It is found in the red yeast Phaffia rhodozyma which is used in Asian cooking, and accumulates in the muscles of salmon, shrimp, trout and other pink seafood that eat the red algae Haematococcus.
  • Daily Need: It can be taken in pill form, 4-10mg daily.
  • Related Conditions: Cataracts, retinal detachment, macular degeneration, has potential for helping Alzheimer's, Parkinson's, and spinal cord injuries.

Astaxanthin


Krill Oil
Unique fatty acid profile with astaxanthin


Astaxanthin
Potent antioxidant.

Zeaxanthin

Zeaxanthin is also found in high amounts in the macula and like lutein protects against the free radical damage from UV light that damages the retina (macula and rods and cones). Zeaxanthin is found most concentrated in the center of the macula. It works more effectively as a supplement in combination with lutein.1

  • Food Sources: Saffron, orange peppers, paprika peppers, spinach, goji berry, corn, kale, collard and mustard greens, romaine lettuce, broccoli, kiwi fruit, peas, oranges, tangerines and chard.
  • Daily Need: 3mg/daily for prevention, and up to 20mg/day therapeutically.
  • Related Conditions: Macular degeneration and other macula disorders

Zeaxanthin


Advanced Eye & Vision Support Formula



Liquid Taurine
Helps clean up waste by-products that accumulate in the retina

Footnotes:

1. SanGiovanni JP, Chew EY, Clemons TE, et al. (September 2007). "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". Arch. Ophthalmol. 125 (9): 1225-32.