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Lutein for Vision
from eMedTV.comIf you have certain problems with your vision, lutein may help treat or prevent several symptoms. This naturally occurring carotenoid pigment is claimed to be effective at treating or preventing several vision problems, including cataracts and age-related macular degeneration (AMD).
For example, some research has shown that people with a high dietary intake of lutein may have a lower risk for developing macular degeneration. Studies have also suggested that this product may improve some of the symptoms of macular degeneration, although it does not appear to slow down the progression of the disease.
Also, people with a high dietary intake of lutein may have a lower risk of serious cataracts (the kind that require surgical removal), although it is unclear if supplementation provides equal benefits.
Although using lutein for some vision problems may be beneficial, there is little evidence to suggest that the supplement would be helpful for improving vision in general for people without any specific eye condition such as macular degeneration.
(Click Does Lutein Work? for a complete overview of using lutein for vision problems. This article also discusses other potential uses, such as preventing cancer, diabetes, and heart disease.)
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Written by/reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD; Arthur Schoenstadt, MD
Last reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD