Lutein is a natural carotenoid that improves the clarity and sharpness of vision, as well as the overall health and function of the eyes.
It is synthesised by the retina as a pigment and protects the eyes from harmful free radicals. It absorbs excess light energy, just as it protects plants from light rays. It protects the eyes in the same way. It is used by the body as an antioxidant that absorbs blue light. It is suitable for people who suffer from myopia, hyperopia and astigmatism. It successfully strengthens capillary blood vessels, protects against the formation of blood clots in the retina, supports macular function and relatively slows down the degenerative processes of the eyes.
Where is lutein found?
Lutein is found in the back of the eye (the retina), in the lens, in the optic nerve and in the macula. The macula is a small area of the retina where the light rays entering the eye focus. The macula is responsible for sharp vision. Since the amount of lutein in the body is insufficient, it needs to be obtained from external sources. The main plant-based sources of lutein are parsley, cabbage, spinach, turnips, courgettes, broccoli, pumpkin, Brussels sprouts and others. Other good sources include orange juice, melon, red peppers, pumpkin and grapes. Lutein can also be obtained from food supplements. You can read more information and interesting facts about lutein here.
What is diabetic retinopathy?
In people with diabetes, one of the most sensitive organs is the eye. It contains many small blood vessels that are susceptible to damage from high blood sugar. In other words, anyone with diabetes is more likely to damage or lose their sight. Persistently high blood sugar levels, high blood pressure and high cholesterol are the main causes of diabetic retinopathy. As a result, approximately one-third of people with diabetes suffer from this eye disease. This happens because elevated blood sugar causes glycation, a process that creates unbreakable bonds between nearby protein and sugar molecules. All of this happens because elevated blood sugar causes glycation, a process that creates unbreakable bonds between nearby protein and sugar molecules. This usually leads to the formation of new structures that cause the collagen in the small blood vessels of the eye to harden. Diabetic retinopathy can be prevented or its progression slowed by monitoring and maintaining normal blood sugar levels, blood pressure and body weight.
How does lutein affect diabetic retinopathy?
Lutein is known to be a valuable aid for vision disorders, as it helps to strengthen capillaries and prevent blood clots in the retina. It is an effective neutraliser of free radicals and plays an important role as an antioxidant. Lutein is like a protector for the eyes – it helps them to adjust to light and dark and alleviates ‘eye strain’, especially during intensive computer work and under artificial lighting.
Another property is the protection against eye damage caused by medications, air pollution, cigarette smoke and UV rays. It plays a significant role in combating oxidative damage to the retina and abnormalities associated with diabetic retinopathy.
Diabetes mellitus is a leading cause of acquired blindness in people under the age of 65, and the disease has been shown to lead to a greater risk of various eye diseases. If you have diabetes, don’t wait for your vision to deteriorate before you take action. Timely supplementation with various supplements and micronutrients has been shown to prevent, or at least significantly slow, the development of diabetic complications. Lutein is a typical example of a tool in the fight against the effects of long-term high blood sugar levels, as it strengthens the visual system and contributes to good, clear vision.
