Lutein is a yellow crystalline carotenoid which happens to be one of the six hundred natural occurring carotenoids that can be found naturally in green leafy vegetables like kale, broccoli and spinach. The name lutein comes from the latin word luteus which means yellow. One of the benefits of taking lutein is that by it being a carotenoid in the carotene group, consuming foods such as broccoli and kale which contains beta carotene will enhance the effects of lutein which could slow down or even possibly prevent the process of age-related macular degeneration.

To keep your eyesight in good condition and health it is recommended you eat food that contains sources of lutein in it such as eggs, broccoli, corn and kale. If it is difficult to keep track of or to even remember the specific foods to eat that contain lutein, it would be advised to just take a lutein supplement. Taking a lutein supplement will work and concentrate in the center region of the retina or macula lutea where it becomes an antioxidant filtering light and maintaining health within the macula. When taking the lutein supplement, make sure you’re not taking too much of it. An excessive amount of lutein could possibly cause irritated itchy eyes, a skin discoloration known as carotenosis which is a slight yellowing of the skin and itching on certain parts of the skin. It’s always best to follow the directions on the back of the bottle or even consult with a physician to ensure that you’re taking the right amount or proper dosage of lutein.