Description
Lutein, also known as phytolutein, is a carotenoid, which is widely found in vegetables, fruits, flowers and other plants. Its chemical formula contains two ketone rings and is the main pigment that exists in the macular area of the human eye.
Lutein is an oxygen-containing carotenoid, which is ubiquitous in bananas, kiwi, corn and marigolds. It has a variety of physiological functions, including anti-oxidation, elimination of free radicals, anti-cancer, and reducing the incidence of cardiovascular diseases. Visual protection, especially in the prevention of age-related cataracts and age-related macular degeneration, has received widespread attention. However, lutein is prone to oxidation under natural conditions, which limits its application.
Function
Vision protection
Lutein is a kind of fat-soluble vitamin. Its absorption spectrum contains near blue-violet light, which can help the retina of the eye resist ultraviolet rays. For myopia, supplementing with lutein can delay the increase in myopia.
Coloring
Lutein is widely used in the processing of condiments, tobacco, cakes, candies and various feeds. In China, lutein has been widely used as a colorant.
Anti-oxidize effect
Lutein has strong antioxidant capacity, can inhibit the activity of oxygen free radicals and prevent the damage of oxygen free radicals to normal cells.
Anticancer effect
Lutein has unique biological effects in inhibiting tumor growth, and its mechanisms mainly include antioxidant activity, inhibition of tumor angiogenesis and cell proliferation.
Delay the effect of early arteriosclerosis
Lutein can slow down the development of early arteriosclerosis. Through animal experiments, it was found that mixing lutein and mouse feed together, and feeding them, the incidence of arterial thrombosis was lower than that of those who did not feed lutein feed.
Preventing diabetes
Lutein can be used as an effective adjuvant to strengthen the function of insulin to lower blood sugar. Therefore, eating foods such as fruits and vegetables rich in lutein can reduce the risk of diabetes
