Novartis recently introduced a powerful new eye health formula in Italy. Lutegenol™ is a combination of lutein and French maritime pine bark extract Pycnogenol® that work synergistically to provide overall eye health.

Both ingredients have a good deal of scientific research published on their effectiveness on eye health. Scientists have found that lutein, a carotenoid found in dark, green leafy vegetables and certain fruits, plays a beneficial role in eye health by helping reduce the risk of age-related macular degeneration (AMD). AMD is caused when the macula of the eye deteriorates from a lifetime of steady damage due to oxidative stress in the retina. This causes the gradual loss of central vision and patient symptoms vary depending on if they suffer from dry or wet AMD.

Pycnogenol® research indicates that its properties best protect the eye by keeping blood vessels and capillaries functioning efficiently, especially in diabetics who are prone to diabetic retinopathy. Diabetic retinopathy is a leading cause of blindness in people under the age of 60 and occurs when elevated glucose levels in the blood react within the capillaries of the retina, resulting in swollen and brittle walls that eventually lead to blood leaking into the retina causing gradual vision loss.