Experts gather to discuss new research that aims to ensure healthy vision is safeguarded in ageing populations.
Healthy vision: one of the most important factors that contribute to an individual's quality of life and the reason behind the congress, Lutein and its Benefits in Eye Health, which took place in Munich, Germany, last month. Longevity induced eye diseases, such as age-related macular degeneration (AMD), the leading cause of irreversible blindness in developed countries, are on the increase as populations continue to age. Deposited in the macula and lens, lutein acts as ?internal sunglasses' and protects the eyes against light-induced oxidative damage. During the congress, leading experts presented the latest findings on this essential carotenoid and its most clinically researched brand, FloraGLO Lutein.
Epidemiological evidence has established a link between the benefits of the carotenoids lutein and zeaxanthin and improved eye health: lutein absorbs blue light and acts as a filter that may prevent the photochemical damage caused by short-wavelength visible light. The consumption of lutein and zeaxanthin is proven to increase macular pigment optical density (MPOD) in human eyes, which, in turn, is associated with a decreased risk of AMD and improved visual function. FloraGLO, manufactured by Kemin Health, is intended for inclusion in food supplements or as an ingredient for use in food and beverages. Kemin joined forces with DSM Nutritional Products Europe Ltd (DSM), sponsors of the congress, under an exclusive strategic alliance to globally commercialize lutein products. Together, they were able to utilize the patented Actilease technology to formulate DSM lutein beadlets, which provide excellent stability and superior bioavailability.
Latest Scientific Research
Prof. Paul Bernstein from the Moran Eye Center, University of Utah, presented the very latest scientific research on the biological significance of lutein. He identified selective, high-affinity binding proteins for lutein, zeaxanthin and their metabolites and provided insights into future research and the emerging possibility of non-invasive approaches. The proposed improvements in visual performance and comfort parameters associated with lutein and zeaxanthin supplementation were discussed by Prof. B Randall Hammond from the University of Georgia, who presented trial results confirming this theory. He reported on the significant relationship between levels of lutein and zeaxanthin and their effects on visual function, such as photostress recovery, glare disability and chromatic contrast sensitivity. An ongoing clinical study was described by Mina Chung, PhD, from the Flaum Eye Institute, University of Rochester, investigating the extent to which lutein assists in reducing the progression and risk of AMD. The trial will evaluate the effect of treatment with lutein and zeaxanthin - alone or in combination with omega-3 fatty acids - with official results expected by 2013.
Bioavailability
The bioavailabilty of lutein is an important aspect of research into the effectiveness of its supplementation. Low serum levels of lutein are associated with increased AMD risk, which is particularly significant when, as Prof. Edward P. Norkus, PhD, from the Montefiore Medical Centre in New York, stated: 'Current data suggests great variability in serum response following lutein supplementation from various sources.' His latest findings, however, reveal a significantly greater relative serum lutein response from supplements containing free lutein, such as FloraGLO, than from those containing lutein esters. In addition to the lutein form, formulation methods also have a substantial impact on its bioavailability. Wolfgang Schalch, PhD, from DSM, presented on recent research that has revealed the superiority in bioavailability provided by the use of Actilease beadlet technology that formulates lutein into micro-sized particles protected in a water-soluble shell.
Conclusions
The congress concluded that the blue light filtering and antioxidant properties of lutein and zeaxanthin protect against damage caused by reactive oxygen species in the retina and have a positive effect on different eye health parameters. Furthermore, there have been many studies undertaken that have demonstrated increased MPOD levels, improved visual function and reduced risk of age-related eye diseases that are specific to FloraGLO Lutein. As a result, the increased consumption of lutein may be seen as a safe, easy and effective measure to improve macular health. Further studies look set to provide more evidence regarding the efficacy and benefits to eye health associated with long-term Lutein supplementation.
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Royal DSM NV is a global science-based company that's active in health, nutrition and materials (www.dsm.com). Kemin Industries (founded in 1961) provides solutions specifically developed to provide nutrition and health benefits for humans and animals, distributing approximately 500 specialty ingredients to the food, health, nutrition and beauty industries (www.kemin.com).
