Carotenoids May Protect Against Colon Cancer, Cataracts

BETHESDA, Md.--Carotenoids, found in many fruits and vegetables, may have achemoprotective role in cancer. In the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition (AJCN),a study looked at carotenoids and their effect on particular types and stages ofcolon cancer. The dietary carotenoids a-carotene, b-carotene, lycopene, lutein,zeaxanthin and b-cryptoxanthin were then evaluated.

The study population consisted of 1,993 subjects, ranging from 30 to 79 yearsold, who had been diagnosed with colon cancer, with a control group of 2,410people without cancer. Participants were asked what foods they had eaten twoyears prior to their cancer diagnosis. Of the carotenoids studied, lutein provedto have the most protective effect against colon cancer, especially in youngerpeople. Lutein, working with zeaxanthin, another carotenoid, creates anantioxidant which researchers believe scavenges free radicals and reacts withcell membranes that are susceptible to carcinogenesis in the colon.

In other research, lutein may also help combat cataracts. Women who consumedlutein reduced their chances of developing cataracts by 78 percent, whereasmen's chances dropped by 81 percent.

The main sources of lutein consumed by participants in the studies includedspinach, kale, broccoli, lettuce, tomatoes, carrots, oranges and orange juice,celery and eggs. Researchers recommend consuming at least 6mg of lutein a day.