Nutrient to Know: Zeaxanthin
Tara Donne, Tara Donne
Like its pal lutein, zeaxanthin may reduce your risk of a condition known as age-related macular degeneration, the leading cause of vision loss as we get older. Lutein and zeaxanthin are members of the carotenoid family of antioxidants, which includes beta-carotene and lycopene.
In addition to protecting your eyes, antioxidants in the carotenoid family give fruits and veggies their bright yellow, orange and red color and can help protect the body against certain types of cancer.
There is currently no daily recommended amount for this antioxidant but make these foods part of your regular diet to make sure you’re getting some in.
- Orange bell pepper
- Persimmons
- Corn
- Greens, like spinach, kale (like the Massaged Kale Salad pictured above), romaine lettuce
- Tangerines
Dana Angelo White, MS, RD, ATC, is a registered dietitian, certified athletic trainer and owner of Dana White Nutrition, Inc., which specializes in culinary and sports nutrition. See Dana's full bio »