Press Room
Lewin Study Identifies Health Care Savings: Zeaxanthin Plays a Role
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West Chicago, IL (November 2, 2005) — This morning a study by the Lewin Group was released which determined that by taking certain dietary supplements (specifically, lutein with zeaxanthin, and omega 3 fatty acids), senior citizens can lead healthier, more productive and more independent lives. More than $5 billion in savings to the Medicare system would be realized over five years in reduced hospitalizations and physician services.
The study identified visual impairment as one of the top reasons elderly people lose their independence. It is both common, with 35 percent of individuals aged 75 and older having Age-Related Macular Degeneration (AMD), and costly. The study uses as an example the fact that eighteen percent of all hip fractures among seniors are attributed to age-related vision loss. The decreased independence resulting from loss of vision places a significant financial burden on the person, their family and the entire health care system.
The Lewin Group estimates a $2.5 billion net savings over five years (2006-2010) from a reduction in the relative risk of AMD through daily intake of 6-10 milligrams of lutein with zeaxanthin. In those five years, approximately 98,219 people could, through lutein with zeaxanthin supplementation, avoid the transition to dependence that would accompany a vision loss resulting from advanced AMD.
Lutein is now included in many multivitamins. Omega 3s, likewise, are gaining in popularity as people add more fish to their diets or supplement with Omega 3 capsules. Zeaxanthin, however, is only beginning to be recognized as an important ingredient by the general population.
Zeaxanthin (pronounced zee-uh-zan'-thin) is a dietary carotenoid found mostly in the macula, the central part of the retina in the eye that is responsible for most fine vision. Zeaxanthin, like lutein, is thought to be a critical nutrient for eye health and can help guard against age-related vision loss. Zeaxanthin and lutein molecules, both derived from marigold flowers, always exist in tandem, but the ratios differ.
Chrysantis™, Inc., makes the only natural zeaxanthin on the market. According to General Manager Manuel Pavon, "Macular degeneration is one of the main age-related conditions which people are learning to guard against through supplements. The Lewin study correctly points out that when it comes to the prevention of AMD one should look for products containing both zeaxanthin and lutein."
He goes on to say, "Recent research indicates that zeaxanthin supplementation is particularly important for women; this is being recognized by the NEI which is sponsoring a study called: Carotenoids and Age-Related Eye Disease in Women's Health Study."
Chrysantis, Inc., a wholly owned subsidiary of Ball Horticultural Company based in West Chicago, IL, is dedicated to developing high-quality plant-based products for dietary supplement manufacturers and the functional foods industry that will enhance human health. For more information, call 630 588-3474 or visit http://www.chrysantis.com
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