Unlocking the Power of Antioxidants: Lutein, Zeaxanthin, and Turmeric Curcumin

For many consumers, antioxidants are synonymous with the beauty industry. Many of us seek out antioxidants to protect our skin from oxidative stress, a condition caused by the imbalance between free radicals (also known as unstable molecules) and antioxidants. An overload of free radicals can stimulate inflammation and lead to wrinkles, acne, and other unwanted conditions.

But these free radicals are not only in our skin. They are present throughout the entire body.

Our bodies naturally produce free radicals to counteract bacteria and viruses. While free radicals are helpful in some instances, they can be harmful if their structure breaks down and they split. Unhealthy lifestyle choices such as lack of sleep and cigarette smoking can speed up the structural damage to free radicals, resulting in more oxidative stress. This may cause harm to the cells and contribute to chronic diseases such as diabetes, arthritis, and heart disease.

One way to counteract the negative effects of oxidant stress is through supplementation with plant antioxidants, which are essential for health and longevity. Plant antioxidants such as lutein, zeaxanthin, as well as turmeric curcumin are particularly potent in combatting these issues and promoting health.

When paired with krill oil, rich in omega-3 fatty acids, these nutrients can deliver comprehensive health benefits for the brain, heart, joints, eyes, skin and immune system. Krill oil’s phospholipid form serves as an absorption partner to the plant antioxidants, ensuring that the body gets the maximum value from each dose. In addition, although not a plant antioxidant, vitamin B12 is another important nutrient that complements these benefits by supporting nervous system health and energy production.

This mix of krill oil omega-3 fatty acids, along with antioxidants lutein, zeaxanthin and turmeric curcumin, plus vitamin B12, are found in Kori’s Mind & Body Omega-3, a dietary supplement designed for mind and body support. However, lutein, zeaxanthin and turmeric curcumin aren’t exactly everyday household terms, which is why it can be helpful to understand the unique benefits of each.

Lutein, a powerful plant antioxidant found in green leafy vegetables and best known for its eye health benefits. It accumulates in the retina, where it protects against damage from blue light and oxidative stress. Studies show that lutein supplementation can improve visual function and may reduce the risk of age-related macular degeneration (AMD). [1] In addition, higher levels of lutein in the retina correlate with higher levels in the brain, which can lead to improved brain function, such as memory benefits. This is crucial for the mitigation of cognitive decline and prevention of neurogenerative diseases such as Alzheimer’s. [2]

FloraGLO® Lutein, a highly bioavailable form of lutein, has been extensively studied for its benefits. [3] Research indicates that a daily intake of 10 mg of FloraGLO Lutein can significantly enhance eye health. [4]

Zeaxanthin, often found alongside lutein in green leafy vegetables, plays a similar role in eye health as its lutein counterpart. It is a major component of the macular pigment in the retina and works in tandem with lutein to filter harmful blue light and neutralize free radicals. Regular intake of zeaxanthin has been linked to a reduced risk of cataracts and AMD. [1] Zeaxanthin also has demonstrated similar brain effects as lutein, leading to improvement in cognitive tasks such as verbal learning, memory, and executive function in a study with both young and older adults. [2]

Like lutein, FloraGLO also provides a bioavailable form of Zeaxanthin. [3] A daily intake of 2 mg is generally recommended to maintain optimal eye health. [4] Studies have shown that this dosage can help improve visual performance and protect against oxidative stress.

Turmeric curcumin, derived from turmeric root, is a potent antioxidant and anti-inflammatory agent. Curcumin is known for its ability to modulate inflammatory pathways and reduce oxidative stress, making it beneficial for a wide range of health conditions, including arthritis, cardiovascular diseases, and neurogenerative disorders. [1]

The antioxidants lutein, zeaxanthin, and turmeric curcumin play an important role in protecting the body from oxidative stress and promoting overall health. These nutrients, especially when combined with krill oil, can provide significant benefits for both mind and body.

Kori Krill Oil’s Mind and Body captures these benefits in supplement form, offering a balanced blend of brain-healthy omega-3 nutrients that may enhance the effects of the antioxidants and B12. Together, this combination of nutrients serves to nourish the body and aid the healthy production of nerve cells and energy for overall health and longevity.