Lutein is a natural substance that may benefit eye and skin health. When choosing lutein softgels, consider the dosage and enteric coating. Consult a doctor before taking supplements. Lutein is found in foods such as kale and spinach. Lutein may prevent macular degeneration and improve skin health.
Lutein is a naturally occurring substance that research has shown may provide eye and skin health benefits. As a dietary supplement, it is available in various forms, including softgels, which contain liquid in a gelatin-based shell. To choose the best lutein softgels, you need to consider the lutein dosage and the specific type of coating. As is the case with any supplement, before adding lutein capsules to your diet, you should consult your doctor to ensure that taking them is safe and effective.
The first step in determining the best lutein softgels is to determine how much lutein you need in your diet. Although research varies, most research suggests that 10 milligrams or more per day provides a health benefit. Some lutein capsules list their lutein content in micrograms (mcg), which is one thousandth of a milligram, so 10 milligrams equals 10,000 micrograms. Keep that in mind when you make your choice.
Another consideration when taking any supplement is the coating on the softgels. Even if it’s going to cost a bit more, make sure the lutein softgel is enteric coated, which ensures the lutein will be released in the small intestine and not destroyed by stomach acid. Even highly concentrated doses of lutein will become useless to your body if the substance is not released in your intestine, where the nutrients are much more easily absorbed.
Although most people consume less than 10 milligrams of lutein per day, your diet may contain more lutein than you might think. If you regularly eat foods rich in lutein, such as kale, spinach, Swiss chard, or turnip greens, you may not need as high a dose in your lutein softgels. All of those foods contain more than 10 milligrams of lutein per cup after cooking.
Research suggests that the benefits of lutein extend to both the eyes and the skin. Some research indicates that daily consumption of lutein softgels containing 10 or more milligrams may help prevent macular degeneration, which is a leading cause of vision loss in older adults. Additionally, some research shows that daily consumption of lutein softgels may help maintain healthy skin through increased skin hydration, elasticity, and lipid content. Studies have also shown that carotenoids such as lutein act as powerful antioxidants that protect cells from free radical damage. This could lower your risk of cancer.
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