Lutein Absorption Higher as a Solid-Lipid Particle Complex

egg yolkLutein absorption can be improved by adding solid-lipid particles to the formula.  What does that mean?   Lipids are fats and solid-lipids are fats which are solid at room temperature.  Researchers have noted that lutein from egg yolks is more readily absorbed than the ester form of lutein. Researchers wanted to know whether combining ester lutein with egg-like phospholipids and fatty acids  would improve its absorption rate.

Lutein Absorption Studied

A pilot study found that lutein in the form of a solid-lipid particle complex appeared to be more readily absorbed than the traditional  ester supplements. This supplement was prepared from enriched egg yolk. The results mean that more bio-available supplements of this important carotenoid antioxidant could come in the near future.

Research demonstrates that Lutein has a protective and supportive effect on eye health. The macula at the back of the eye is yellow due to lutein and zeaxanthin. They filter blue light, protecting the eye. Without proper intake and absorption of these two carotenoids, the eye can develop several diseases including Macular Degeneration (AMD).

The supplement is called a Continue reading “Lutein Absorption Higher as a Solid-Lipid Particle Complex”

AMD Research: Part 1

age-related macular degeneratio ARMD Age-Related Macular Denegation is a significant cause of vision loss that can often be managed and even improved through targeted nutritional support. It affects mostly people over age 50. While the precise cause of ARMD is not clear, oxidative damage is suspected as being a major factor. It strikes the elderly possibly due to poor diet and nutritional intake over a lifetime, less efficient absorption of nutrients and poor circulation as the body ages. The care needed by vision-impaired elderly could become overwhelming. Let’s take a look at some of the newest research in preventing macular degeneration, as well as treatment and support options.

Symptoms & Diagnosis

Central vision is possible because of the macula. It is a small, yellow-colored Continue reading “AMD Research: Part 1”

Can Oxidative Damage Cause Macular Degeneration and Cataracts?

vegetables and fruits containing antioxidantsAntioxidants have been studied as a way of preventing eye diseases such as macular degeneration and cataracts. Oxidative damage (free radical damage) may be a contributing cause of these diseases. People concerned about developing these problems may consider taking both dietary and supplemental antioxidants, such as fruits, vegetables, and supplements like lutein, zeaxanthin, glutathione, Continue reading “Can Oxidative Damage Cause Macular Degeneration and Cataracts?”

Three Ways to Improve Absorption of Turmeric or Curcumin

turmeric and black pepperTurmeric’s ability to support the body has been well-researched; however, this spice by itself is difficult for the body to absorb. This bright yellow spice is also called curcumin, and it contains a prized antioxidant. Research is verifying curcumin’s ability to reduce: inflammation, depression, pain and diabetes.

At Natural Eye Care, we often recommend curcumin or turmeric as a dietary supplement for patients who have, or are at high risk for an eye condition related to inflammation. For example, macular degeneration
and glaucoma appear to have an inflammation component. Curcumin supports glutathione synthesis, which is an important antioxidant for vision.

Continue reading “Three Ways to Improve Absorption of Turmeric or Curcumin”

Low Intake of Antioxidants & Lutein Associated with Macular Degeneration (ARMD)

antioxidant vegetable for eyesEating plenty of fruits and vegetables helps ward off a common eye disease, age-related macular degeneration (ARMD). A study in Acta Ophthalmologica looked at the relationship between intake of antioxidants (including the antioxidant lutein) and the incidence of macular degeneration. It found that people with low intake of antioxidants were twice as likely to have this eye disease versus controls. Continue reading “Low Intake of Antioxidants & Lutein Associated with Macular Degeneration (ARMD)”

Computers & Your Eyes II: How Blue Light Damages Vision

blue light electronics Blue light is emitted from all handheld electronic devices as well as desktop and laptop computers and televisions. It is the shortest wave length light in the visible spectrum and causes significant damage to many parts of the eye seriously impacting present and future vision capacity. Damage from blue light from smartphones is particularly important because smartphones are often used in dim light and are used close to the eyes. Unlike ordinary computer vision fatigue, damage from blue light is serious, cumulative and irreversible. Continue reading “Computers & Your Eyes II: How Blue Light Damages Vision”

How Carotenoid Supplementation Could Prevent Macular Degeneration and Alzheimer’s Disease

carotinoids junk food or tomatoesCarotenoids have been shown to protect against oxidative damage, which can prevent both macular degeneration and factors contributing to dementia-related diseases (i.e., Alzheimer’s disease).[1. “Protective Effects of Dietary Supplementation with a Combination of Nutrients in a Transgenic Mouse Model of Alzheimer’s Disease” Shengyuan Wang et al., PLoS One. 2015; 10(11): e0143135. Published online 2015 Nov 25. doi:  10.1371/journal.pone.0143135 PMCID: PMC4659639] Links have been found between these two diseases: patients with dementia were found to have poor maculas and a higher incidence of Macular Degeneration[2. “Macular pigment, visual function, and macular disease among subjects with Alzheimer’s disease: an exploratory study.” Nolan JM et. al. J Alzheimers Dis. 2014;42(4):1191-202. doi: 10.3233/JAD-140507.].

However, these nutrients do not seem to be able to mitigate damage after dementia sets in. Therefore, making sure sufficient amounts of carotenoids are ingested at all ages Continue reading “How Carotenoid Supplementation Could Prevent Macular Degeneration and Alzheimer’s Disease”

Antioxidant Astaxanthin Helps Prevent AMD, Eye Fatigue & More

Haematococcus-pluvialisA humble micro-algae produces a powerful antioxidant:  astaxanthin.  It does so to protect itself from ultraviolet radiation. Research shows that astaxanthin protects the human eyes and brain from serious diseases such as age-related macular degeneration and dementia, including Alzheimer’s disease, as well as conditions like computer eye strain and eye fatigue (asthenopia)[3. https://www.naturaleyecare.com/study.asp?s_num=248]. Astaxanthin supplements are easy to take with no side effects. They are especially helpful as people age and begin to develop serious chronic conditions. Continue reading “Antioxidant Astaxanthin Helps Prevent AMD, Eye Fatigue & More”

Amino Acid Taurine is Crucial to Healthy Vision

amino acid taurineYour body is 1/1000th taurine, a chemical essential to life. The amino acid taurine is crucial for vision.  It supports function of the heart, skeletal muscle, and the central nervous system.[1] The pancreas produces taurine, and taurine is a major component of digestive bile. The chemical can be ingested from meats, fish and supplements, such as pills and energy drinks.

In the 1970s, experiments on animals deprived of taurine found they did not develop proper vision. Since then, Continue reading “Amino Acid Taurine is Crucial to Healthy Vision”

Saffron Helps Macular Degeneration in Antioxidant Study

saffronTaking saffron pills improved the visual acuity of age-related macular degeneration (AMD) patients in a small study. Macular degeneration is the gradual deterioration of the small, yellow-colored part of the eye near the center of the retina.

Saffron contains carotenoids called crocin and crocetin. These antioxidants have been shown to have a protective effect on retinal cells. Continue reading “Saffron Helps Macular Degeneration in Antioxidant Study”