Lutein and health

Abstract

Lutein is a yellow pigment of the carotenoid family, present in egg yolk, vegetables and fruits, although lutein supplements are mainly obteined from Marigold flower (Tagetes erecta), alfalfa and algae. Lutein is a carotenoid which cannot be synthesized in the human body, and must be supplied with the diet, despite no dietary reference values or clearly defined protective levels have been formulated yet. Lutein interest for health is based on its antioxidant potential, acting as light filter at sensible tissue sites, such as retine, lens and the macule. Its antioxidant properties are interesting for the prevention of atherosclerotic damage, age-related macular degeneration, cataracts, colon cancer and other photoprotective and antioxidant properties. Estimates of lutein intake in the average Spanish dietary pattern for the 25-60 year old population group have been calculated based on the pooled analysis of the eVe study in 2,74 mg/day, slightly above estimates published for the Netherlands, Germany and the United States. The distribution of lutein intake by region shows higher intakes in the Northeast and North compared to the East, South and the Canary Islands.