Lutein Protects Against Cholesterol Damage and Plaque Formation

Lutein is a carotene that is best known for its role as a natural component of the macular pigment in your eyes, and its ability to help prevent age-related macular degeneration.  A new animal study shows that supplementation over a 12 week period in combination with a poor diet protected against the formation of plaque¹ in the arteries.

This new study demonstrates the antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties of this important carotene. It is well known that mammals with the longest lifespan have the highest levels of carotenes in their blood. In humans, carotenes are either slowly being deposited in tissues or slowly being taken out of tissues. If yours are in a state of decline then protection of your health is compromised. If your intake of carotenes is consistent and they are routinely in your blood, then they tend to deposit in your tissues and protect them from damage (such as age-related macular degeneration).

High quality supplement extracts of carotenes are actually easier to absorb than carotenes in food as they are already stripped from their fiber (a digestive issue of some significance). Carotenes of all types are part of your basic antioxidant team and should be consumed on a consistent basis.