Increased levels of zeaxanthin and lutein(anti-oxidants) can reduce the risk of Macular Degeneration. But just how much is needed and, how do we measure results?
Those two specific carotenoids protect against phototoxic blue light and near-ultraviolet radiation are found naturally in the macula.
How much is enough?
It's difficult for healthcare professionals and patients to know just how much lutein and zeaxanthin should be consumed on a daily basis. Supplements with lutein and zeaxanthin vary in nutrient content and packaging.
For most patients, I advise 6 mg to 10 mg of lutein and 1 mg to 2 mg of zeaxanthin daily. But for patients with early-to-moderate AMD, he says he recommends 10 mg to 20 mg of lutein and 2 mg to 4 mg of zeaxanthin daily. For moderate-to-advanced AMD, he says he recommends 20 mg to 30 mg of lutein and 4 mg to 6 mg of zeaxanthin.
From food or supplements?
Recommended dosages of the nutrients can be absorbed from food or supplements, but some experts say it's unlikely many patients will derive lutein and zeaxanthin from diet alone. While dark leafy greens, like spinach and kale, abound with lutein at 20.4 mg and 23.7 mg per cooked cup, respectively, other foods considered good lutein sources contain far less. For example, corn and green beans — consumed more often than spinach and kale — contain just 1.5 mg and 0.9 mg per cooked cup, which presents a recommended-dosage shortfall if dark leafy vegetables aren't also consumed, according to the Lutein Information Bureau (www.luteininfo.com)
When should patients start?
We know that interventions for macular degeneration are important especially when people are in the middle stages of macular degeneration. Most importantly to achieve a good, healthy diet: dark green, leafy vegetables and orange and yellow fruits and vegetables is always recommended at any age.
