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Lutein and zeaxanthine supplements for vision<br />
Lutein* and zeaxanthine* are pigments in the crystalline lens and the retina that belong to the carotenoid<br />
family. They are xanthophylls (yellow-orange pigments) that have an antioxidant role found<br />
in some vegetables of the same colour, like carrots, oranges, marigolds and maize. They absorb<br />
ultraviolet rays and act as a protective filter for the cells of the retina. Their incorporation in Cocker<br />
25 enables the dog to benefit from their from a very early age.<br />
A higher lutein content in the food helps increase the density of pigments in the retina. Lutein specifically<br />
protects the rod cells, playing a major role in mesopic vision. In humans, the risk of cataracts<br />
is inversely proportionate to the serum level and the quantity of ingested lutein (Moeller et al, 2000).<br />
Supplementation is also advised in people suffering from (central) macular degeneration of the retina.<br />
Zeaxanthine acts in synergy with lutein and exercises a specific protective action in the retina’s cone<br />
cells, which play a part in colour vision. There is a synergy between the different carotenoid pigments:<br />
lutein has a role in the regeneration of zeaxanthine.<br />
Cell membrane<br />
Nuclei<br />
Lutein action sites<br />
23<br />
Lutein protects the cell<br />
membrane<br />
Lutein stabilises the cell<br />
membrane<br />
Free<br />
radicals
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