What is Lutein?

Lutein is a nutrient that belongs to the carotenoid family, and is naturally present in some vegetables and fruits. Unlike some other vitamins and nutrients, lutein cannot be manufactured by the body, and, therefore, we must obtain what we need solely from external sources, such as food or by taking a supplement.

Although it is not as well known as the carotenoid beta-carotene, lutein's reputation is quickly gaining prominence due to many health benefits that are continually being uncovered and attributed to it.

In recent years, a great deal of research has shown that lutein--along with another nutrient, zeaxanthin--is vital for healthy eyes. In particular, some landmark studies have shown that daily lutein intake after only a few months can increase the thickness of the eye's macula significantly. As such, people with Age-Related Macular Degeneration (or who are prone to develop it) are often advised to increase their consumption of this nutrient.

In addition, lutein may also lessen the chance of getting eye cataracts.

Other less known potential benefits of lutein are:

1) Anti-cancer agent -- Utah Medical School discovered that even a small consumption of this nutrient markedly slashed the risk of developing colon cancer. Colon cancer is the number #2 cancer killer in the U.S.

2) Helping to ward off the effects of bad cholesterol, and keeping arteries clear.

3) Alleviating arthritis and osteoarthritis aches.

Many of the health benefits of lutein may be explained by the fact that it is a potent antioxidant,and, therefore, can counter free radical damage. If left unchecked, free radicals can lead to cellular damage, which has been postulated to be a leading cause of heart disease, cancers, and premature aging.

We believe people who are middle-aged and up should make sure they are getting enough lutein. Good sources are leafy, green vegetable matter such as spinach and kale. Eggs also present an excellent source.

Sadly, however, many people do not consume enough lutein-rich foods, and therefore, are not getting enough of this nutrient. There is no RDA (Recommended Daily Allowance) set for lutein, but many experts recommend a daily intake anywhere from 2 milligrams to 6 milligrams.

Taking a lutein supplement can help you achieve these objectives.

1. Purchase your supplement only from a pharmaceutical GMP compliant manufacturer. These facilities adhere to the strictest regulatory standards for the manufacture of dietary supplements. This is an issue consumers need to take seriously because the supplement industry is largely unregulated in the U.S., and many products have been shown to harbor contaminants or do not contain what is stated on the product label.

2. Be sure your lutein supplement does not contain any fillers or additives (examples include: sugar, starch, gluten, silica (sand!)) or any artificial colors or flavors.

3. If taken for eye health, lutein should be combined with zeaxanthin--and also zinc, which is an important mineral that has been shown by the National Eye Institute to reduce the risk of age-related macular degeneration.

Why not buy the best? Your health depends on it.

One product that is produced to pharmaceutical GMP compliance, and contains both lutein and zeaxanthin -- and many other important nutrients for eye health -- is Total Balance from Xtend-Life Natural Products.

Total Balance with lutein is the most powerful foundational health supplement we have uncovered to date, and we here at Nutritional-Supplement-Info personally take this product ourselves.