Lutein Benefits
- Skin Health. According to Medical News Today, lutein can help to improve the hydration and elasticity of skin. ...
- Prevent Macular Degeneration. Lutein is found in relatively high quantities in your eyes, where it may play an important role in maintaining eye health.
- Cardiovascular Benefits. ...
Does lutein really work?
Some research studies have suggested that lutein may be effective for some uses, such as improving certain symptoms of macular degeneration, reducing the risk of developing macular degeneration, and improving the appearance of wrinkles. However, much more research is needed to confirm whether or not lutein actually works as claimed.
What are the side effects of lutein?
- Upset stomach or throwing up.
- Diarrhea.
- Constipation.
How much lutein should one take?
There currently is no Recommended Dietary Allowance (RDA) or Recommended Daily Intake (RDI) for lutein or zeaxanthin, but some experts say you should ingest at least 6 milligrams (mg) of lutein per day for beneficial effects. Besides, is 20 mg of lutein a day too much?
When is the best time to take lutein?
Take your supplements during or after a meal, unless directed otherwise, and drink plenty of fluids as well. Take as indicated. Your supplements may be recommended or packaged for morning, noon or evening dosages, based on your individual health needs. For maximum benefit, take them at the time of day indicated on the package.

What is lutein good for?
Lutein is commonly taken by mouth to prevent eye diseases, including cataracts and a disease that leads to vision loss in older adults (age-related macular degeneration or AMD). Lutein is used for many other conditions, but there is no good scientific evidence to support these other uses.
What are the side effects of taking lutein?
There appear to be very few side effects associated with lutein and zeaxanthin supplements. A large-scale eye study found no adverse effects of lutein and zeaxanthin supplements over five years. The only side effect identified was some skin yellowing that was not considered harmful ( 32 ).
Who should not take lutein?
Do not take more than 20 mg per day of a lutein supplement. Pregnant or breastfeeding women and children should not take supplemental lutein. Keep all supplements, vitamins, and other medicines securely out of the sight and reach of children and pets. Use only USP-Verified herbal and supplement products.
Can lutein improve vision?
Lutein and zeaxanthin can help protect your eyes from harmful high-energy light waves like ultraviolet rays in sunlight. Studies suggest that a high level of both in eye tissue is linked with better vision, especially in dim light or where glare is a problem.
Can lutein raise blood pressure?
Discussion: In healthy participants, oral administration of a lutein phytochemicals complex for three weeks produced increased ocular blood flow biomarkers within retinal vascular beds and reduced diastolic blood pressure compared to placebo.
What food has highest lutein?
These eight foods offer some of the highest amounts of lutein per serving:Kale. Kale's dark green color holds high amounts of nutrients, including impressive levels of lutein. ... Spinach. ... Romaine Lettuce. ... Corn. ... Bell Peppers. ... Parsley. ... Pistachios. ... Eggs.
Is lutein safe for kidneys?
The results of the study show that lutein effectively protected the kidneys of mice treated with cisplatin; these results are also supported by the histopathologies of the kidney tissues of treated mice.
Does lutein affect the heart?
Lutein and zeaxanthin, the carotenoids (antioxidants) found in fruits, vegetables and many eye health supplements, may be linked to an increased risk of heart attack, according to a study in Julys Journal of Nutrition.
Is lutein good for hair?
Two specific carotenoids found in eggs, lutein and zeaxanthin, also play a role in maintaining cellular health, especially of eyes, skin, and hair. Peanuts are a significant source of biotin, known to both stimulate hair growth and prevent hair loss.
What is the best vitamin for eyes?
The 9 Most Important Vitamins for Eye HealthVitamin A. Vitamin A plays a crucial role in vision by maintaining a clear cornea, which is the outside covering of your eye. ... Vitamin E. ... Vitamin C. ... Vitamins B6, B9 and B12. ... Riboflavin. ... Niacin. ... Lutein and Zeaxanthin. ... Omega-3 Fatty Acids.More items...•
What is the best time to take lutein?
mealtimeLutein supplements are available in soft-gel capsule form. They should be taken at mealtime because lutein is absorbed better when ingested with a small amount of fat, such as olive oil. The recommended dosage is 6 mg to 30 mg daily.
Which supplement is best for eyes?
What supplements may help my eye health?Lutein and zeaxanthin. Lutein and Zeaxanthin are carotenoids. ... Zinc. Also found naturally in your eyes, zinc is a powerful antioxidant that protects against cell damage. ... Vitamin B1 (thiamine) Vitamin B1 is essential for the health of your eyes. ... Omega-3 fatty acids. ... Vitamin C.
Health Benefits
Possible Side Effects
- Lutein and lutein supplements are likely safe when taken by mouth in appropriate amounts. Certain patients, including those with skin cancer or cystic fibrosis,should be cautious when considering lutein supplements. It's important to consult your healthcare provider before taking any type of dietary supplement on a regular basis. It's important to keep in mind that supplement…
Dosage and Preparation
- Consuming 6.9-11.7 mg of lutein per day in your diet appears to be safe. In research, lutein supplements have been used safely in doses up to 15 mg daily for up to two years. Additionally, health experts note that taking up to 20 mg of lutein both from the diet and supplements seems to be safe.5 High doses of lutein may cause a condition called carotenemia, or yellowing of the s…
What to Look For
- To increase your lutein intake without the use of lutein supplements, include lutein-rich foods like kale, spinach, cabbage, green beans, mangoes, and papayas in your daily diet. While lutein supplements may be of some benefit in the treatment or prevention of certain health problems, self-treating with the supplements (and avoiding or delaying standard care) is not recommended…