Macushield Unique Eye Protection & Health Support Softgel Capsules 90 The unique Macu Shield® formula combines powerful antioxidants that help shield the macula against potential free radical & blue light damage. Society’s attitude to health & fitness has changed dramatically in recent years & we are now, more than ever, aware of the need to maintain our health for as long as possible. We recognise the importance of eating a varied & balanced diet in conjunction with frequent exercise. However, this is not always possible due to our hectic lifestyles. Increased awareness of potential risk factors may alleviate complications as we age. Macu Shield® exclusively contains the three macular carotenoids: lutein, zeaxanthin andmeso- zeaxanthin in a once a day, easy to take, food supplement. Why is Macu Shield® Important? New scientific research, published in one of the top peer-reviewed eye journals (Investigative Ophthalmology & Visual Science), has shown that a supplement containing the three macularcarotenoids meso-zeaxanthin, lutein & zeaxanthin, can uniquely enrich an individual’s protective macular pigment. Importantly, this is the first published scientific study to test & confirm the safety of consuming all three macular carotenoids (Connolly et al., IOVS;2011; Oct 6). What is meso-zeaxanthin? Meso-zeaxanthin is part of a family of substances called carotenoids. Meso-zeaxanthin is located at the centre of themacula where vision is sharpest. Research has shown that meso-zeaxanthin is generated at the retina from lutein, however scientists believe that some individuals are unable to perform this conversion. Meso-zeaxanthin has been identified in certain foods including salmon, trout & shrimp. In fact, a recent study from the US has shown that the antioxidant potential of macular pigment is enhanced when meso-zeaxanthin is present. The Role of Lutein & Zeaxanthin Lutein & zeaxanthin are entirely of dietary origin, found in leafy green vegetables such as spinach & kale & fruits such as oranges & bananas. Lutein & zeaxanthin are also effective antioxidants which neutralise free radicals and filter harmful blue light. An average western diet contains 1.3-3mg per day of lutein & zeaxanthin combined (Loane et al., 2008). This is considerably less than the amount needed to protect against free radical & blue light damage.