How to Use Lutein

Lutein is a pigment that is found in green leafy vegetables like spinach and in egg yolks. It is thought to have a number of health benefits, and it is often taken in pill form as a part of a multivitamin regimen. Lutein has been widely studied in the attempt to get a better understanding of its value to the body.

• Use lutein to help prevent eye problems. Lutein is a carotenoid and is useful for promoting healthy eyesight. It is found in the macula, which is a part of the retina, and is thought to help protect it from the condition called macular degeneration that often affects older people. Studies have shown that the lower concentrations of lutein can bring a higher risk of macular degeneration. It may also be useful in treating other conditions such as the eye damage that accompanies diabetes and the formation of cataracts.


• Take lutein as an antioxidant. While much of the research on the benefits of taking lutein concentrate is on its effect on eye-health, it is also thought that lutein along with other antioxidants, may help to protect the body, in particular the skin, from the effects of free radicals.


• Use lutein to reduce the risk of getting diabetes. Regularly taking lutein may help to prevent high blood sugar, and as a result, diabetes. Studies have shown that people who eat lutein-rich foods show lower blood sugar levels than those who do not. Taking carotenoids in general, including lutein, may play a role in lowering blood sugar.


• Exercise caution with the dosage. Because little is known about the effects of taking the supplement in high dosages, you should only take the recommended amount until further research is conducted. It is believed that six to 10 milligrams of lutein a day is sufficient for an individual to see the benefits.