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Description:
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Lutein is a yellow-to-orange pigment or phytochemical found mostly in plants. It works as an antioxidant in your body to reduce the damage done by free radicals. Lutein is a Carotenoid and is related to Vitamin A. Other carotenoids include Beta-carotene, alpha carotene and Zeaxanthin.
Evidence from human studies also suggests that Lutein supplementation increases antioxidant effects in the blood. And may be beneficial in terms of cataracts, macular degeneration prevention, and retinal degeneration.
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Claims:
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Uses: These uses have been tested in humans or animals. Safety and effectiveness have not always been proven. Some of these conditions are potentially serious, and should be evaluated by a qualified healthcare provider.
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Grade*
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Antioxidant
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B
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Cataracts
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B
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Eye disorders (lens opacities, macular degeneration, retinal degeneration)
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C
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Atherosclerosis (hardening of the arteries), Muscle soreness
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C
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Obesity, Diabetes mellitus, Cancer
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C
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UV-induced erythema prevention/sunburn
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C
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*Key to grades: A: Strong scientific evidence for this use; B: Good scientific evidence for this use; C: Unclear scientific evidence for this use; D: Fair scientific evidence against this us; F: Strong scientific evidence against this use.
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Safety:
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Avoid if allergic or hypersensitive to lutein or zeaxanthin. Use cautiously if at risk for cardiovascular disease or cancer. Avoid if pregnant or breastfeeding.
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Possible side effects:
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In general, there are no known side effects or precautions with regard to lutein. In the available literature, there is strong data supporting the safety of doses up to 20 milligrams daily.
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Excess carotenodermia (yellowish/orange discoloration of the skin), increased cardiovascular disease risk.
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Possible interactions:
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Alcohol, cholestyramine resin, colestipol, cytochrome P450 metabolized agents, mineral oil, nicotine (tobacco), orlistat, retinoids.
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Dosing:
Adults (18 years and older):
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Lutein is commercially available in various field.
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Children (younger than 18 years):
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Not enough scientific data available.
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