When it comes to eye supplements, lutein and zeaxanthin are well known.
So, does lutein really work?
Lutein is a yellow natural pigment that plays an important role in eye health by absorbing blue light from TVs and smartphones as well as ultraviolet rays, thereby protecting the eyes.
Since lutein is not a substance synthesized in the body,
It is necessary to intake through "food".
Foods containing lutein include dark green leafy vegetables such as kale, spinach, broccoli, cabbage, napa cabbage, corn, lettuce, and pumpkin, as well as egg yolks.
Experts say that lutein supplements need to have the correct dosage and ratio of 500mg of vitamin C, 400 IU of vitamin E, 30mg of zinc, 10mg of lutein, 2mg of zeaxanthin, and 2mg of copper to be effective.
Most over-the-counter supplements do not adhere to this ratio, so it is actually difficult to say that we can effectively improve eye health with the supplements that are easily available.
Close your mouth.
Lutein begins to gradually decrease after around age 25. In particular, smokers experience a rapid decline at more than twice the rate compared to non-smokers.
The only thing that can be said to have some effect is the prevention of worsening of 'macular degeneration' (age-related vision loss disease).
However, age-related macular degeneration cannot be completely cured, and taking supplements does not necessarily lead to improvement, but rather,
As people age, lutein naturally decreases, so it is recommended to supplement it with vitamins or supplements for those suffering from macular degeneration.
Therefore, it is a well-established fact that there is no need for young people without macular degeneration or those with sufficient lutein intake to take supplements.
Actually, according to the Ministry of Food and Drug Safety's description of functional health food ingredients
It only states that maintaining macular pigment density, which can decrease due to aging, can help eye health. Some advertisements that exploit this phrase to claim prevention of dry eye syndrome or cataracts are considered exaggerated advertising and should be avoided.
Summary
1. Lutein supplements cannot improve eye health.
If you are not a patient with macular degeneration or an elderly person, rather than taking supplements, eat foods containing lutein.