Lutein - Essential Antioxidant for Eye Health

Lutein is a carotenoid antioxidant that is essential for eye health. It plays a crucial role in protecting the eyes from harmful high-energy light waves like UV rays.
Category
Supplement
Where to get
Available in health stores and some supermarkets.
Applicable for
Prepared by Lee Cheng, reviewed by Jane Cox

Lutein FAQ


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What is lutein & how does it work?

Lutein is a carotenoid found in the macula and retina of the human eye. Often referred to as the "eye vitamin," it is thought to work as a light filter and protect the eyes from sun damage.

Is lutein a good nutrient?

Lutein is a nutrient best known for its help maintaining eye health, though it may have other health benefits as well. It’s a carotenoid — compounds that give plants their color — found mainly in yellow and green fruits and vegetables. Lutein is also available as a supplement, and studies show it’s as effective in this form as dietary sources.

What is the lutein market?

The lutein market is segmented into pharmaceutical, dietary supplement, food, pet food, and animal and fish feed. The pharmaceutical market for lutein is estimated to be about US$190 million, and the nutraceutical and food categories are estimated to be about US$110 million.

Is lutein a vitamin?

Putting it simply, lutein is a type of vitamin. It falls under the carotenoid category, which means it’s related to beta-carotene and vitamin A. Carotenoids are also a type of plant pigment that gives fruits and vegetables their colour. 3 What is zeaxanthin?

What does lutein stand for?

Lutein is a yellow xanthophyll carotenoid with a singular molecular formula (C 40 H 56 O 2 ), an International Union of Pure and Applied Chemistry (IUPAC) name [ (3R,3′R)- β,β -carotene-3,3′-diol], and a chemical abstracts services (CAS) registry number (127-40-2).

Lutein References

If you want to know more about Lutein, consider exploring links below:

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