Lutein is a type of carotenoid vitamin that is believed to be useful for treating lutein deficiency conditions, maintaining eye health, and preventing macular degeneration (AMD). or cataract.
Lutein is an organic pigment found in several types of foodstuffs, such as spinach, broccoli, corn, grapes, oranges, kiwi, or egg yolks. Compounds Compounds that have antioxidant properties can be absorbed by the body properly if consumed with high-fat foods.
In humans, lutein acts as a color pigment in the human eye (macula and retina) which functions to filter light and protect eye tissue from sun damage.
Lutein trademark: Blackmores Lutein-Vision, Nutrilite Bilberry With Lutein, GNC Herbal Plus Bilberry Extract Lutein & Zeaxanthin, GNC Natural Brand Lutein
What is Lutein
| group | Free medicine |
| Category | Supplement |
| Benefit | Prevents macular degeneration (AMD) and cataracts |
| Consumed by | Mature |
| Lutein for pregnant and lactating women | Category N: Not categorized. It is not known whether lutein can be absorbed into breast milk or not. If you are breastfeeding, do not use this supplement without consulting your doctor. |
| Drug form | Capsules and tablets |
Precautions Before Taking Lutein
There are several things you need to pay attention to before using lutein, namely:
- Do not take lutein if you are allergic to this supplement.
- Consult your doctor first before taking lutein if you suffer from cystic fibrosis. Sufferercystic fibrosis may not be able to absorb carotenoids from food properly and have low levels of lutein in the blood. This condition will also affect the body's ability to absorb the lutein in the supplement.
- Consult your doctor before taking lutein if you have or are currently experiencing skin cancer. There is concern that high levels of lutein in the blood will increase the risk of skin cancer.
- Tell your doctor if you are taking certain medications, supplements, or herbal products.
- See your doctor right away if you have an allergic reaction or overdose after taking lutein.
Dosage and Rules for Use of Lutein
There is no definite nutritional adequacy rate (RDA) for lutein consumption. Lutein is often found in multivitamin products along with other vitamins. The following are generally recommended doses for lutein based on their intended use:
- Purpose: Prevent age-related macular degeneration (AMD)
The dose is 6–12 mg per day.
- Purpose: Relieves symptoms age-related macular degeneration (AMD)
The dose is 10–20 mg per day.
- Purpose: Prevent cataracts
The dose is 6–12 mg per day.
- Purpose: Relieves cataract symptoms
The dose is 15 mg, 3 times a week.
How to Consume Lutein Correctly
Be sure to read the information on the packaging label before taking this supplement. If you have certain health conditions or are in doubt, consult your doctor before taking lutein or any vitamin supplements that contain lutein.
Vitamin and mineral supplements are consumed to complement the body's need for vitamins and minerals, especially when the intake of vitamins and minerals from food cannot meet the body's needs.
Keep in mind, supplements are only used as a complement to the body's nutritional needs, not as a substitute for nutrients from food.
Store lutein supplements at room temperature and in a closed container to avoid sun exposure, and out of reach of children.
Lutein Interactions with Other Drugs
The following are some of the interactions that can occur when taking lutein with other supplements, herbal products, or foods:
- Decreases the effectiveness and amount of vitamin E absorbed by the body
- Lowers the amount of lutein absorbed by the body when taken with beta-carotene
Lutein Side Effects and Dangers
If taken according to the recommended dosage, lutein supplements generally do not cause side effects. Lutein supplements are still safe to use at a dose of 20 mg per day. If lutein is consumed in excess, your skin may turn slightly yellow.
Be sure to read and pay attention to the ingredients contained in each drug. Do not take more than one supplement containing lutein at the same time to avoid an overdose.
