Thanks for the info, and the link. I see by the research reports copied there that lutein is also good for preventing and decreasing the effects of age-related cataracts. My last eye exam showed some evidence of cataracts forming, so it will be interesting to see if they have gotten worse, or diminished, since I started taking lutein right after that exam. Based on that docs advice, I believe that I'll skip taking luten two days a week, as he recommends.
The only thing that bothers me about that site, is the three questions posted at the bottom of the page, none of which he could answer. He made an educated quess at the first one, (I don't have any problem with that), but why would someone post questions that he/she couldn't answer, on a site that is dedicated to advice on that particular topic, (lutein)? Especially when any astute surfer can find the answers to two of those questions in just a few seconds, (the two that he couldn't answer at all). I'm puzzled by that. The questions, (and his responses), are:
The correct answers are:Lutein questions
Q. Are there any side effects to lutein supplement use? Is lutein for eyes, only?
A. I would guess that high doses of lutein supplement could cause side effects but research has not indicated what these side effects would be. It is best to take a break from using a lutein supplement at least 2 days a week. Lutein is mainly for eyes, but since it is an antioxidant, it could potentially be helpful in other conditions, but research is quite limited. I would suggest not taking more than 20 mg 2 or 3 times a week.
Q. How much lutein is in Ocuvite?
A. I have not used this product, so I don't know how much lutein is in Ocuvite.
Q. How much lutein is there in bilberry? I want to take lutein for eyes, I have macular degeneration.
A. I don't know how much lutein is in bilberry.
Ocuvite contains 2 mg of lutein.
Bilberry apparently doesn't contain any significant amount of lutein.
Incidentally, anytime you need to look up a vitamin or herbal supplement, here's a database that covers the subject in good detail. It's a good reference to bookmark.
http://www.vaxa.com/ingredients-list-a-b.cfm
Love,
Tex