Lutein - Nature's Secret to Living Healthy

The benefits of taking lutein have become a subject of much discussion. The more we learn about the positive effect this natural antioxidant can have on the body, the more we realize just how important it is to get the proper amount on a daily basis.

Among the many benefits of lutein is its ability to improve cardiovascular health by freeing the arteries of excess LDL cholesterol. Basically, the body is like an engine and exposure to irritants like smoke and air pollution can cause a build up of free radicals and other toxins which can clog up arteries and build up in the organs making the entire body function poorly.

Antioxidants work to remove those free radicals from the body, enhancing overall health. In the case of the cardiovascular system, the benefits of taking lutein include allowing blood to circulate freely, improving muscle response, respiration and endurance. And since the health of the heart and the circulatory system is vital to the proper function of the rest of the body, this particular benefit can not be stressed enough.

Some of the other benefits of lutein range from its ability to help ease the pain of osteoarthritis to helping prevent certain forms of cancer, including colon cancer. The importance of antioxidants is still being researched, so even now we're not sure of exactly what they can do but we know that they improve our health in a myriad of ways.

Once of the most important benefits of taking lutein is its ability to protect the eyes from damage caused by blue light and the sun's UV rays. Over time, exposure to these most harsh forms of light can cause permanent damage to the retinas, resulting in vision impairment and even vision loss. By working as a natural filter, lutein can shield the sensitive retina and prevent this damage.

But shielding the retina from harsh light is only one of many benefits of lutein when it comes to eye health. Perhaps the most important benefit is preventing damage to the area in the center of the retina known as the macula. Macular degeneration is the single most common cause of vision loss in those 60 and older and it is irreversible. This makes the use of lutein to prevent this damage all the more important as it is the only known way of avoiding macular degeneration.

While the benefits of taking lutein can be achieved by consuming it naturally in green and orange vegetables and fruits such as spinach, kale, broccoli, carrots and corn, not everyone can get the full effect this way. For those whose diet is lacking, lutein can be taken as part of a comprehensive natural supplement. Included as part of a healthy lifestyle including a well balanced diet and plenty of exercise, natural supplements can be the best way to ensure that you are getting the proper amount of all the necessary vitamins, minerals and nutrients.

Living healthy doesn't have to be a struggle. With a comprehensive natural supplement which contains a careful blend of helpful substances such as lutein, you can feel your best at any age. It's as simple as that, so why make it harder than it has to be?

Al Bracher is chief editor of Skincare and Health supplements.. Visit us to learn more about those products.