Zeaxanthin belongs to the group of carotenoids and, among other things, helps the retina to protect itself against excessive light exposure.
Effects of Zeaxanthin
Especially in recent times, the focus in ophthalmology has increasingly been placed on zeaxanthin. And not without reason: zeaxanthin is said to provide protective functions against particularly harmful forms of retinal degeneration. Especially in the case of age-related macular degeneration (AMD), one can particularly benefit from the antioxidant effects of zeaxanthin. The point of so-called "sharp vision" has been referred to as the "yellow spot" or scientifically as the macula lutea since the 16th century. The name refers to its color, as the spot appears yellow under a microscope. It was not until the 1980s that it was finally discovered that this yellow coloration is due to an accumulation of zeaxanthin and lutein in an area of just one millimeter. The concentration of these two carotenoids in this area is 1000 times higher than in the bloodstream. This leads to the conclusion that zeaxanthin and lutein perform functions relevant to vision. This is because it is scientifically proven that the most photoreceptor cells are located in the central area of the retina. This is where resolving power, and thus visual acuity, is highest. Diseases such as age-related macular degeneration carry the risk of damaging central visual acuity. Possible consequence: everyday activities such as, for example, reading or watching television can be significantly restricted.
Which foods contain zeaxanthin?
Good food sources for zeaxanthin are carrots, corn, apricots and oranges. However, many green vegetables such as lettuce, celery, leeks, bell peppers, spinach, broccoli, Brussels sprouts, peas and green beans also contain plenty of zeaxanthin. Those who want to be on the safe side can supplement their diet with vital substance preparations containing natural carotenoids.
See better with carotenoids from Medicom
A degeneration of the important macula is becoming increasingly significant against the background of increasing life expectancy. On average, such a disease can be detected in its early stages in around 20 percent of 65- to 74-year-olds. Medicom offers a range of preparations combining the vital substance zeaxanthin with other ingredients. Zeaxanthin works effectively together with lutein as a preventative measure.
