Lutein is one of the two main carotenoids in the human eye (macula and retina). It is considered a filter to protect the eye from sunlight. It is a kind of carotene, a compound that gives color to plants. Lutein is in the most fruits and vegetables, but green and yellow foods are the most abundant. Because it is a fat-soluble nutrient, cooking or eating lutein-rich foods with healthy fats such as olive oil. This can improve lutein’s absorption in the body. The following three plants have the highest levels of lutein:
1. Kale: When the intake of kale in the diet reaches a higher level, the possibility of glaucoma will be reduced. The dark green color of kale contains a lot of lutein. However, cooking will reduce the lutein of kale by almost half, but this total still meets your daily advice.
2. Marigold: Marigold is one of the most lutein-rich floral plants. The content of lutein is between 0.6-2.5%. The petals part is the highest of lutein content. The darker the petals, the higher the content of lutein. Kingsci's lutein extract is based on marigold as raw material. Lutein powder can be used in cosmetics, medicine, health care products and other industries.
3. Spinach: Spinach is a rich source of lutein which lutein content is 12mg/100g. Lutein supplements help to maintain the normal visual function of the eye, prevent macular degeneration and cataracts. Unlike kale, cooking spinach will increase its lutein content.
The above are some foods with relatively high lutein content, so we can consciously eat more in daily life. They can help protect the eyes of the human body. However, the intake of lutein in food is still limited. If the body really needs to supplement lutein, it is recommended to take lutein supplements directly.
