Description

Zeaxanthin is a common carotenoid, a pigment found in high levels in dark green vegetables, orange and yellow fruits, and egg yolks. It is also one of only two carotenoids found in the human eye, where it helps protect the eyes from the harmful effects of oxidation and light.

Carotenoids are fat-soluble, antioxidant molecules that are bright red, yellow, or orange. They’re found in some algae, bacteria, fungi, plants, fruits, and vegetables.They’re essential nutrients that you have to get from your diet .

Of the 700 carotenoids identified in nature, only about 20 have been consistently found in the human body. Of these, zeaxanthin and lutein are primarily found in the human eye.You can find zeaxanthin and lutein in a variety of fruits, vegetables, and animal products, such as egg yolks.They belong to the carotenoid class of pigments called xanthophylls, and they’re found in high concentrations in light-exposed structures in both plants and the human eye.

In scientific studies, zeaxanthin and lutein are often described together due to their overlapping functions in the eye, but also because the human body can convert lutein into zeaxanthin .

Zeaxanthin is concentrated in the center of the retina, while lutein is found in the peripheral regions of the retina. Together, they form the macular pigment of the eye .Both offer antioxidant benefits, although zeaxanthin is the more effective antioxidant.

Carotenoids act as antioxidants, substances that protect the body’s cells from damage. They are also thought to have cancer-fighting properties.