Super Zeaxanthin with Lutein

For wet or dry macular degeneration
60 softgels, Code 876, $39.95

For those who already suffer from wet or dry macular degeneration, we have developed a special treatment that provides high potencies of both lutein and zeaxanthin may help to prevent the progression of advanced macular degeneration into blindness.

Carotenoids, lutein and zeaxanthin, found in the macular (back of the eye or retina) region of the eye, act as super protectors of sight by shielding the eye from the harsh or damaging rays (ultraviolet (UV) radiation) of sunlight. Besides sun damage, with advancing age these precious carotenoids are significantly reduced, which can lead to age-related macular degeneration (advanced macular degeneration), the leading cause of blindness in the US among those over 65.

It appears that cumulative oxidative stress plays a major role in advanced macular degeneration. The theory is because of the sensitivity of the macula area to light, the oxidative action of UV radiation depletes or disarms these protectors, leaving us vulnerable to free radical damage. Vision becomes blurred and we lose the ability to see fine details, and it becomes progressively worse. The key then to advanced macular degeneration prevention is preserving and maintaining healthy levels of lutein and zeaxanthin. Incidentally, another risk factor for advanced macular degeneration is smoking. The solution? Don’t do it!

Spinach and collard greens, along with other green leafy vegetables and fruits could be our sight savior. For years, scientists have known that consuming greens, especially spinach and collard greens could dramatically reduce the risk of macular degeneration. Importantly, the active carotenoids in these vegetables are lutein and zeaxanthin. But the problem is many of us don’t eat enough of these kinds of foods to benefit from their curative properties. Foods rich in lutein include spinach, kale, broccoli, collard greens, etc. Zeaxanthin is found in fruits and vegetables with yellow hues, such as corn, peaches, persimmons, mangoes, etc.

Studies have shown that eating lutein- and zeaxanthin-rich foods or taking supplements of these carotenoids can restore macular pigment density, which declines with age. In fact, one such study of advanced macular degeneration patients who were taking high-dose lutein supplements (4 mg or more per day) experienced “normal” levels after a few months. A Harvard-led study demonstrated that eating lutein-rich foods five days per week meant subjects were eight times less likely to develop macular degeneration compared to those who consumed the same foods just once per month. (JAMA 1994 Nov 9;272(18)1413-20).

Another important case-control study by researchers at the University of Florida, found that healthy eating that includes diets rich in lutein and zeaxanthin could lower the risk of advanced macular degeneration as much as 82% compared with those outside that group. (Invest Ophthalmol Vis Sci 2001 Jan;42(1)235-40).

Based on all the evidence, The Life Extension Foundation (who introduced lutein in 1985) has formulated Super Zeaxanthin with Lutein.The suggested dose is one tiny capsule a day as a for those concerned about macular degeneration. Those with existing macular degeneration may take two capsules a day as a treatment until macular pigment becomes denser.

One softgel contains:
Zeaxanthin ......................5 mg
Lutein ............................10 mg

Other ingredients include:
gelatin, rice bran oil, glycerin, water, beeswax, lecithin and annatto

Dosage and use

• The suggested dose is one tiny capsule a day for those concerned about macular degeneration. Those with existing macular degeneration may take two capsules a day until macular pigment becomes denser.
  
• Lutein and zeaxanthin absorb best when taken with fat. For maximum assimilation into the bloodstream, take this supplement with the meal of the day that contains the most fat or with fatty acid supplements such as fish oil and conjugated linoleic acid (CLA).

Article: An Eye to the Future

These statements have not been evaluated by the FDA. These products are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease