Antioxidant
Protection For The Eyes*
PRODUCT DISCUSSION
The macula of the eye contains carotenoid pigments and is responsible for
supporting the health of the eye’s photoreceptor cell layer. Free radicals are
unstable compounds that can occur naturally in the body. They can contribute to
oxidative stress, which in turn may contribute to the premature aging of the
cells, including those in the macula. PhysioLogics MacuCare® combines powerful
antioxidants for promoting macular health.*
STRUCTURE AND FUNCTION
The carotenoid Lutein is a yellow pigment that provides color in marigolds. The
yellow color of this macular carotenoid is crucial for the absorption of blue
light. Blue light contains a shorter wavelength in the visual spectrum,
delivering high energy to photosensitizers in the eye. Most carotenoids are
commonly found in membranes, and some may only efficiently scavenge free
radicals generated in the inner membrane. Lutein contains hydroxyl groups that
interact with the polar head groups of phospholipids, locking the molecules in a
position that spans the membrane. This property allows Lutein to react with free
radicals generated in both aqueous and membrane phases, broadening its
antioxidant capabilities.*
Alpha-lipoic acid (LA), also known as thioctic
acid, is a naturally occurring compound that is synthesized in small amounts by
plants and animals, including humans. It is endogenously synthesized and
covalently bound to specific proteins, which function as cofactors for several
important mitochondrial enzyme complexes. It supports the regeneration of
glutathione, one of body’s primary antioxidants.
Taurine is the one of the most abundant free
amino acids in cardiac and skeletal muscle, platelets, and the developing
central nervous system. L-Taurine can also be found in the brain, retina of the
eyes, and skeleton.
CLINICAL EVIDENCE
- A multi-center case-control study examined the
effect of dietary carotenoids and vitamins on eye health. Lutein was among
the carotenoids that were most strongly associated with macular support.
(Age-Related Eye Disease Study Research Group, 2007)
- Lutein has been shown to be beneficial to
long-term visual health. Seventeen participants were randomized in a
double-blind study involving dietary supplementation with Lutein (15 mg),
alpha-tocopherol (100 mg), or placebo, three times a week for up to two
years. Visual performance, acuity and glare sensitivity were measured as
parameters of vision health. In all parameters measured, subjects who
consumed Lutein had significant improvements in vision health when compared
to the other groups. (Olmedilla et al, 2003)
SUMMARY
PhysioLogics MacuCare® combines the powerful antioxidant Lutein with Alpha-Lipoic
Acid and the amino acid Taurine for promoting macular health.*
SUGGESTED DOSAGE
Take one (1) capsule one to two times daily with meals, or follow the advice of
a health care professional.
REFERENCES
Age-Related Eye Disease Study Research Group, SanGiovanni JP, Chew EY, Clemons
TE, et al. The relationship of dietary carotenoid and vitamin A, E, and C
intake with agerelated macular degeneration in a case-control study: AREDS
Report No. 22. Arch Ophthalmol. 2007;125:1225-32.
Olmedilla B, Granado F, Blanco I, Vaquero M.
Lutein, but not alpha-tocopherol, supplementation improves visual function in
patients with age-related cataracts: a 2-y double-blind, placebo-controlled
pilot study. Nutrition. 2003;19:21-4. MacuCare®.
Seddon JM, et al. Dietary carotenoids, vitamins
A, C, and E, and advanced age-related macular degeneration. JAMA.
1994;272:1413-21.
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