Protect Your Body From Oxygen Related Damage With The Xanthophyll Zeaxanthin

by Tom Parker⁽¹⁸⁾
Free Fitness Tips

Zeaxanthin is a xanthophyll and phytonutrient (natural nutrients with numerous health benefits) that can be found in broccoli, kale, spinach and other green leafy vegetables. In this article I will be breaking down zeaxanthin and looking at its exact impact on human health.

1) HISTORY:

Zeaxanthin can be found in plant based foods and also in a part of the eye called the macula lutea. It was first discovered in 1985 by Bone & Laundrum as part of the macula lutea.

2) HEALTH BENEFITS:

Zeaxanthin is a powerful antioxidant that can fight free radicals. Free radicals are harmful by-products that get released into your body's cells during oxygen related reactions. They are believed to accelerate the ageing process, increase your risk of developing cancer (a health disorder where your body's cells grow in a rapid, out of control way), increase your risk of developing diabetes (a health disorder where your blood glucose levels become extremely high) and weaken your immune system.

Additionally, there is a lot of promising evidence which suggests this xanthophyll may be able to boost the eyes by preventing macular degeneration and preventing cataracts (clouding on the lenses of the eyes). However, this evidence is still very provisional and additional studies are needed before these benefits can be confirmed.

3) RECOMMENDED DAILY ALLOWANCE (RDA):

Humans can survive without zeaxanthin so no official consumption recommendations have been established. However, a number of experts suggest that consuming between 6 milligrams (mg) and 10mg of this nutrient on a daily basis will supply you with adequate levels of this xanthophyll.

4) FOOD SOURCES:

Zeaxanthin is mainly found in green leafy vegetables. Some of the top food sources include broccoli (1.4mg per 100 grams (g)), Brussels sprouts (0.9mg per 100g), green peas (0.8mg per 100g), kale (between 4.4mg and 8mg per 100g) and spinach (between 2.4mg and 5.1mg per 100g).

5) DEFICIENCY SYMPTOMS:

There are no official deficiency symptoms associated with zeaxanthin consumption. However, some experts believe that due to the presence of this xanthophyll in the eye a long term deficiency may lead to eye problems. However, no studies have been performed to investigate these claims.

6) SUMMARY:

Although there is plenty to learn when it comes to the health benefits of zeaxanthin you should still eat your greens. Green leafy vegetables are rich in a wide range of health boosting nutrients and will also supply your body with plenty of this xanthophyll.

Tom Parker owns Free Fitness Tips - a fantastic source of free, impartial fitness advice. You can learn more about zeaxanthin, the xanthophylls and the many potential xanthophyll benefits by visiting his website.

Article submitted Saturday, January 28, 2012 & read 1 times.

Tom Parker is the owner of Free Fitness Tips - a fantastic source of free, impartial fitness advice. His website covers all aspects of fitness and provides readers with free diet, exercise, fitness and weight loss tips which help them lead a fitter and healthier life.

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