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ZEAXANTHIN
Articles by a Naturopathic
Doctor ( N.D.)
Zeaxanthin is a carotenoid found in dark leafy greens like spinach, kale, broccoli, collard greens, turnip greens, and more ... |
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ZEAXANTHIN |
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| Zeaxanthin is used to promote eye health and prevent cataracts. |
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It is also referred to as a xanthophyll, an oxygenated form of carotenoid. Unlike alpha and beta carotene, which are converted to retinol (vitamin A), zeaxanthin has no vitamin A activity.
Zeaxanthin is a special carotenoid, in that it and lutein are the only carotenoids found in the retina and lens of the eye. These carotenoids function to absorb blue light, protecting the eye from light induced oxidative damage. As such, these carotenoids have been studied extensively for potential ability to slow the development of age related macular degeneration and cataracts. |
Macular degeneration is the leading cause of blindness in older populations. Studies have shown that individuals with higher intakes of food rich in lutein and zeaxanthin, at a minimum dosage of 6 mg/day, have a significantly decreased risk of age related macular degeneration. They are also are less likely to develop cataracts or require cataract extraction. As family history plays at least some role in the development of both these conditions, these carotenoids may help to prevent a problem before it even becomes one.
Foods rich in zeaxanthin have also been shown to significantly reduce cardiovascular disease. Although high in antioxidants it is believed that it is not the antioxidant ability of these foods alone that account for it medicinal effects. Studies based on supplementation of beta carotenes are not finding the same benefits. This is another indication that a healthy diet can often be just as effective, in some cases more effective, than supplementation alone.
Carotenoids, like zeaxanthin, are best absorbed with a small amount of fat in meals. Preparing foods high in carotenoids, for example chopping, pureeing or cooking, with oil generally increases the bioavailability of the carotenoids they contain.
Zeaxanthin is rarely found alone in supplement form. It is normally combined with lutein in combinations geared toward eye health. It is not naturally found in the same concentrations that lutein is, and therefore usually found in much smaller amounts than its fellow carotenoid when combined in capsule form. There has been no toxicity or safety issues reported with the use of zeaxanthin. |
Zeaxanthin
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QUICK FACTS
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SOURCES
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Kale, spinach, collard greens, turnips greens, dandelion greens, broccoli, squash. |
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APPLICATIONS |
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Macular degeneration, cataracts, atherosclerosis and cardiovascular disease, free radical/oxidative damage. |
OPTIMUM
DOSAGE
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unknown. |
WORKS WELL
WITH
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Lutein and other carotenoids (beta carotenes, alpha carotenes, etc.). |
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IMPORTANT
INFORMATION
click for products |
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Best to cook and prepare food rich in zeaxanthin with oil, as fats increase their bioavailability.
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