Which carotenoids accumulate in the retina and lens to provide specific protection against oxidative damage in the eye?
Answer
Lutein and zeaxanthin
While beta-carotene is crucial for Vitamin A synthesis for general vision, lutein and zeaxanthin are distinct carotenoids that play a specialized protective role within the eye structure itself. These compounds actively accumulate in the macula and lens of the eye. Once concentrated there, they function as powerful antioxidants, filtering harmful high-energy blue light and neutralizing free radicals. This accumulation offers direct protection against oxidative stress specifically targeting these sensitive eye tissues. Consuming foods rich in lutein and zeaxanthin is thus a recognized dietary strategy for defending against progressive vision impairments like age-related macular degeneration and cataracts.
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