Marigold Extract (Lycored Lutein, Meso-Zeaxanthin & Zeaxanthin)
Benefits of Marigold Extract
- Eyes
- Form: Extract
- Food source: Lutein and zeaxanthin are found in dark green leafy vegetables such as kale and spinach, as well as sweetcorn, peas and egg yolks.
What is Marigold Extract?
Marigolds are a group of common ornamental flowers, grown around the world for their bright orange, yellow and red petals. It is these distinct colours that also make them interesting for nutrition. What gives plants like marigold their colour is a group of pigments called carotenoids, and marigold petals are a rich source of two of them, lutein and zeaxanthin.
The human retina is a layer of light-sensitive cells on the back wall of your eyeball. At its centre sits the macula, which contains a yellow pigment known as 'the macular pigment'. This pigment absorbs blue light before it reaches the light-sensitive cells beneath, acting a bit like a natural sunscreen. Lutein, zeaxanthin and meso-zeaxanthin are the key components of this pigment. Meso-zeaxanthin is made from lutein, and marigold is the usual source.
What does the research say about Marigold Extract?
Researchers have looked at lutein and zeaxanthin intake in relation to how the macula changes as we age. They have also studied nutrition in relation to blue light and long hours of screen use, the light given off by artificial lighting and devices like smartphones and computer screens.
Carotenoids, including those found in marigolds, are also a source of antioxidants in the diet. This means they 'scavenge' and neutralise unstable molecules called 'free radicals'.
You may also enjoy reading '7 key nutrients to support your eye health' and 'Tips for better eye health'.
Why it's in Screen Eyes
The carotenoids lutein, meso-zeaxanthin and zeaxanthin are all xanthophyll carotenoid pigments that are essential for maintaining eye health. These carotenoids are highly concentrated in the macula (responsible for high-acuity vision). Their main job is to protect the macula from oxidative damage and blue light exposure, both of which contribute to age-related macular degeneration.1
As antioxidants, Lutein, Meso-Zeaxanthin, and Zeaxanthin neutralise free radicals and reduce oxidative stress, preventing cellular damage within the retina.2 These carotenoids also function as natural blue light filters, reducing phototoxic stress that could otherwise accelerate macular degeneration.2 Research has shown that supplementation with these three carotenoids can improve macular pigment optical density, which is a biomarker of retinal health. This can also improve visual acuity and contrast sensitivity while reducing glare sensitivity. Higher macular pigment optical density levels reduce the risk of age-related macular degeneration as well as improve vision.2
Why it's in Pregnancy Multinutrient
Lutein is necessary for the development of the retina of the eye and for visual development. Lutein is a member of the carotenoid family and is particularly needed for mothers with gestational diabetes. Lutein supplementation during pregnancy significantly reduces neonatal oxidative stress at birth in neonates born to diabetic mothers.3
Pumpkin
Pumpkin contains a variety of vitamins and nutrients with excellent health benefits, especially for our eyes.
Vitamin A
Vitamin A is vital for our immune system, fighting off infections and in the production of white blood cells. It is also essential for healthy skin, vision and eye health.
Vitamin B2
Vitamin B2 is an antioxidant, a compound that keeps the number of unstable molecules (known as ‘free radicals') at a healthy level in the body.
Vitamin E
One of Vitamin E’s main benefits is that it acts as an antioxidant. Antioxidants combat harmful ‘free radicals’ (unstable molecules), helping prevent damage to cell membranes.
Algae
Algae is one of the main starting points for omega 3 in the food chain and is the source of our Vegan Omega 3, vital for our heart, brain and eye health, and much more.
Astaxanthin
Carotenoids - Lutein, Zeaxanthin, Meso-zeaxanthin and Astaxanthin - are found at the back of the eye, forming the macular pigment which is so important to protect for long-term vision.
Beta Carotene
Beta-carotene is a carotenoid that gives carrots their distinctive colour. Our body converts it into Vitamin A for a range of health benefits, particularly for our eyes.
Bilberry
Bilberry is an antioxidant, supporting the retinal function, helping maintain eye health, and providing a natural defence against free radicals.
