|
The benefits of zeaxanthin (an antioxidant found in bell peppers, kale and many other plant foods) have mostly to do with age-related eye diseases. The eye diseases that have historically been associated with getting older are cataracts, age-related macular degeneration and glaucoma. Although they can occur at any age, they are more common in people aged 65 and older. Antioxidants, in general, are one of the body’s defenses against free radical damage and oxidative stress. The pro-oxidant/antioxidant balance must be maintained throughout our lives; otherwise, damage of some kind will occur. The balance can be difficult, if not impossible, to maintain through diet, alone, unless foods are carefully selected and eaten on a regular basis. Striving to include more fruits and vegetables in the diet is important. But, some nutrients cannot be absorbed unless a source of fat is also present. Certain kinds of fats, including trans-fatty acids, contribute to oxidation. Other types of fat contribute to chronic inflammation, another cause of cellular aging. So, sources of dietary fats must be carefully chosen, as well. The benefits of zeaxanthin to the eye are not due solely to the antioxidant activity. It is a major component of the central macula. Located inside of the eye is the crystalline lens, the retina, the macula and the aqueous humor, among other things. A healthy crystalline lens is a transparent structure that focuses light on the retina. The retina is connected directly to the optic nerve, which leads to the brain and allows us to see images. The macula is a small spot on the retina that is responsible for central vision. The aqueous humor is a watery substance that fills the space between the crystalline lens and the cornea, the front surface of the eye. Scientific evidence indicates that the benefits of zeaxanthin and other antioxidants in the diet include: A decreased risk of cataracts, which is a clouding of the crystalline lens A decreased risk of age-related macular degeneration, which is a gradual diminishing of central vision, due to the formation of deposits or new blood vessel growth in the macula A decreased risk of glaucoma, which is increased pressure intra-ocular pressure due to poor drainage of the aqueous humor Optometrists and ophthalmologists usually talk about the benefits of zeaxanthin and another antioxidant called lutein. While zeaxanthin is found in the central macula, lutein is the found in the periphery in high concentrations. While any antioxidant may be beneficial for interfering with the process that leads to glaucoma, it seems that resveratrol, coenzyme Q10, anthocyanins (found in bilberry extract), green tea catechins and gingko biloba antioxidants are particularly beneficial, according to recent reports from researchers in Switzerland. Some of the better multi-nutritional supplements contain all of those antioxidants, as well as natural anti-inflammatory agents and nutrients that address the other causes of cellular aging. We might not be able to live forever, but if the researchers are right, we can reduce our risks of many age-related diseases, but the benefits of zeaxanthin, alone, are not enough to reduce the risks. Take the time to learn more about reducing your risk of age-related diseases, before it’s too late. Gordon Hall is fervent about enabling you and everyone to live a healthy lifestyle, and is an ardent reviewer of herbal, vitamin and mineral extracts. To discover which supplements Gordon recommends after far ranging and extensive research.: < href=”http://www.your-supplement-resource-site.info">Your Supplement Resource Site
Related Articles -
benefits, of, zeaxanthin,
| 
