Lutein is the main carotenoid in such vegetables as kale, leaf lettuce, spinach, Brussels sprouts, and broccoli. It is also a major pigment in the macula, the area of the retina responsible for high-resolution vision. All lutein in the human body comes from supplements and dietary sources.
Available studies provide strong evidence that increased oral intake of lutein reduces the risk of macular degeneration — a common eye condition in which high-resolution vision is lost. Lutein does not cure existing macular degeneration, but it can provide prevention for some people, and a slowing or halting of the progression in others.
Recent studies of lutein’s effects on macular degeneration have reported improvements in visual function in as little as three months. Striking improvements in vision were detected through follow-up tests. The dosage used was 10 mg/day.
