In nature, you will always find zeaxanthin with lutein. The chemical formulas of lutein and zeaxanthin are actually identical. There is just a slight difference in the construction of the individual molecules. One does not occur without the other. When you see lists of dietary sources or foods that provide lutein and zeaxanthin, you will notice that they are the same. Kale, spinach, collards, turnip greens and to a lesser extent green peas, corn and broccoli are on the list. There is a very small amount of the nutrients in egg yolks. The more orange the yolk looks in appearance; the higher the lutein and zeaxanthin content. It is estimated that the average American consumes less than 2mg of zeaxanthin with lutein per day. The USDA guidelines, which are never as high as what some experts suggest, suggest that 4-8mg is a good daily goal. Because they are micronutrients, present in very low quantities in foods of all kind, there are no minimum daily requirements. The human body can survive without micronutrients. But, people that do not get them in their regular diet are simply not as healthy as people that do. Some nutritionists have, for years, suggested that popular American foods are the main cause of obesity, heart disease, type II diabetes and many other illnesses. Many researchers believe that supposedly age-related diseases are preventable, if only people will start to eat right. Consuming more zeaxanthin with lutein may reduce your risk of age-related macular degeneration (ARMD). Supplementation has proven beneficial for people that already have the condition. There disease may have a hereditary or genetic aspect, but diet definitely plays a role. Unhealthy cholesterol levels are a risk factor for ARMD. A diet high in fat is another risk factor. Poor antioxidant status is yet, another. Lutein and zeaxanthin are antioxidants, but they are only two of the many found throughout nature. Lutein is one of the most potent, but those found in bilberry, grape seeds and green tea are very potent, too. To have a poor antioxidant status means that the number of antioxidants circulating in your bloodstream is very low. Usually, it means that you don’t eat enough fruits and vegetables. If you don’t aim for better dietary habits, a zeaxanthin with lutein supplement probably won’t do you much good. But, even a diet rich in fruits and vegetables may not provide all of the antioxidants that we need, every day. At one time, there was probably more lutein and zeaxanthin in fruits and vegetables. Modern farming practices have caused the depletion of many important nutrients in plant foods. Research in Canada and more recently in the US has proven that to be true. So, eat a healthy diet. Include more fruits and vegetables in your meals. But, take a good multi-nutritional supplement, too. If nothing else, it is good insurance. If you take only zeaxanthin with lutein, you may improve your eye health. Add in just a few other nutrients and you could improve your overall health. Which sounds better to you? 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 researchVisit his website now at. : Your Supplement Resource Site
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