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There have been arguments as to whether it is necessary to take lutein and zeaxanthin supplements; this is because some researchers believe that these two substances are ‘non-nutritive bio-active plant components.’ They have also been referred to as ‘micro-nutrients.’

Some also have the belief that deficiency in lutein does not cause any disease; however it is a carotenoid and carotenoids are converted to vitamin A in the human body. For starters, vitamin A deficiency leads to impaired vision (night blindness); if this is not treated, the cornea gets destroyed which eventually leads to total blindness. It is important to note that blindness caused by vitamin A deficiency can not be reversed or corrected; however if it is discovered early and treated in time, the vision could be saved and restored.

This could be done using supplements containing retinol (animal form of vitamin A); the problem with this is that retinol in high dosage is toxic to your body and your body can not get rid of it.

However carotenoids are not toxic so you can take lutein and zeaxanthin supplements to help boost your vision because lutein is a component of retina; retina is that part of your eye that transmits signals to your brain making it possible for you to see. It is also necessary for peripherial vision.

Zeaxanthin on the other hand is concentrated in the macular – that small spot on the retina responsible for central vision.

Another cause of blindness is what is called macular degeneration; it is an age related disease as well as a dietary disease. Diets rich in fats and carbonhydrates contribute to macular disease.

You need lutein and zeaxanthin supplement because our modern diets have also been found to be deficient in vital nutrients and most people don’t even eat enough fruits and veggies; moreover, studies have shown that our fruits and vegetables no longer contain much nutrients as they used to because of the modern methods of farming (for instance the use of pesticides and fertilizers). It is also important to note that these micronutrients are destroyed by cooking.

Studies have attributed macular degeneration to low levels of zeaxanthin; hence the best way to prevent/treat this disease and improve your eye health in general is by regular consumption of lutein and zeaxanthin supplements.

Now that you know the importance of these two micronutrients to your vision, visit my website to learn about a nutritional supplement that I personally take, which contains these and other vital nutrients your body needs to function optimally.

By: Didi Dyke

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