The unique MacuShield® formula combines powerful antioxidants that help shield the macula against potential free radical and blue light damage.
Society’s attitude to health and fitness has changed dramatically in recent years and we are now, more than ever, aware of the need to maintain our health for as long as possible. We recognise the importance of eating a varied and balanced diet in conjunction with frequent exercise. However, this is not always possible due to our hectic lifestyles. Increased awareness of potential risk factors may alleviate complications as we age.
MacuShield® exclusively contains the three macular carotenoids: lutein, zeaxanthin and meso- zeaxanthin in a once a day, easy to take, food supplement.
Why is MacuShield® Important?
New scientific research, published in one of the top peer-reviewed eye journals (Investigative Ophthalmology and Visual Science), has shown that a supplement containing the three macular carotenoids meso-zeaxanthin, lutein and zeaxanthin, can uniquely enrich an individual’s protective macular pigment. Importantly, this is the first published scientific study to test and confirm the safety of consuming all three macular carotenoids (Connolly et al., IOVS; 2011; Oct 6).
What is meso-zeaxanthin?
Meso-zeaxanthin is part of a family of substances called
carotenoids. Meso-zeaxanthin is located at the centre of the macula
where vision is sharpest. Research has shown that meso-zeaxanthin is generated at the retina from lutein, however scientists believe that some individuals are unable to perform this conversion. Meso-zeaxanthin has been identified in certain foods including salmon, trout and shrimp. In fact, a recent study from the US has shown that the
antioxidant potential of
macular pigment is enhanced when meso-zeaxanthin is present.
The Role of Lutein and Zeaxanthin
Lutein and zeaxanthin are entirely of dietary origin, found in leafy green vegetables such as spinach and kale and fruits such as oranges and bananas. Lutein and zeaxanthin are also effective antioxidants which neutralise free radicals and filter harmful blue light. An average western diet contains 1.3-3mg per day of lutein and zeaxanthin combined (Loane et al., 2008). This is considerably less than the amount needed to protect against free radical and blue light damage.