Molecular model of lutein (C40H56O2) one of over 600 known naturally occurring carotenoids.

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Molecular model of lutein (C40H56O2) one of over 600 known naturally occurring carotenoids. Found in green leafy vegetables, such as spinach and kale, lutein is employed by organisms as an antioxidant and for blue light absorption. Lutein is a lipophilic molecule and generally insoluble in water. Lutein is a natural part of human diet when fruits and vegetables are consumed. Various research studies have shown that a direct relationship exists between lutein intake and pigmentation in the eye; an increase in macula pigmentation decreases the risk for eye diseases such as age-related macular degeneration (AMD). As a food additive, lutein has the E number E161b. Carbon: grey, Oxygen: red, Hydrogen: aqua.

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Keywords: -, c40h56o2, carotenoid, e161b, green, hydrophobe, hydrophobic, kale, leaf, leafy, lipophilic, lutein, luteine, model, molecular, spinach, vegetable, vegetables