The Role of Xanthophylls
     A growing body of evidence suggests that dietary supplementation of xanthophylls helps support and maintain healthy ocular function and excellent eyesight, in some instances improving visual acuity and contrast.
     Research into the chemistry of the macula, and specifically the vital role played by the xanthophylls lutein and zeaxanthin, offers the possibility of providing the eyes protection from free radical oxidation. Free radical oxidation is the degenerative process that causes aging in the body, and the prolonged effects can cause age related vision loss.
     The antioxidants lutein and zeaxanthin have the power to protect eyes and vision, and may help prevent eye disorders. Xanthophylls provide optimal nutrition for ocular health by protecting the eyes from light-induced oxidative damage, which triggers macular degeneration and cataract.
Tissue and plasma levels of xanthophylls can be increased by eating foods rich in lutein and zeaxanthin, taking dietary supplements, and maintaining a healthy weight.