Lutein and zeaxanthin: Protecting vision from the inside

Evidence continues to mount revealing the important role that the carotenoids lutein and zeaxanthin play in eye health and visual performance. Lutein and zeaxanthin, which are often derived from Marigold flowers, act a lot like sunglasses do by helping to protect against light-induced oxidative damage. Three different studies examined the long-term effects and the function of zeaxanthin and lutein in eye health. Results from these studies demonstrated that supplementation with lutein and zeaxanthin may be beneficial for AMD patients. In addition, these carotenoids may also help to improve visual performance and function in macular degeneration patients. Macular degeneration patients saw an improvement in photopic contrast sensitivity, night driving skills, improved glare recovery times, visual acuity and shape discrimination. Researchers noted that dietary supplements containing lutein and zeaxanthin helped stopped the progression of macular degeneration and the daily intake of these carotenoids offered a safe, and effective means of maintaining ocular health. VisiVite uses FloraGLO lutein (which was used in one of the studies) and OPTISHARP zeaxanthin in its formulas.