Lutein is a yellow pigment found in such vegetables as kale, leaf lettuce, spinach, Brussels sprouts, and broccoli. It also happens to be a major pigment in the part of the retina responsible for high-resolution vision. All lutein in the human body comes from supplements and dietary sources.
Available studies show that increased oral intake of lutein reduces the risk of macular degeneration — a common eye condition in which high-resolution vision is lost. Improvements in visual function have taken place in as little as three months. Striking improvements in vision have been seen in follow-up tests.
The recommended dosage is 10 mg/day.