With kids spending more time on screens than ever, a lutein eye supplement can be a game-changer for protecting their vision.
Lutein is a powerful nutrient that helps filter harmful blue light and supports healthy vision. That’s why it’s especially important for kids who regularly use digital devices.
New to lutein? No worries. Here, we’ll explain exactly why blue light is a risk, how lutein helps, and why it’s even better when paired with bilberry.
Why kids may need a lutein eye supplement
These days, screens feel like an unavoidable part of childhood. Digital devices are part of kids’ daily routine, from schoolwork to socializing and gaming. But all that screen time can take a toll on their eyes because digital devices emit blue light.
What is blue light? It’s a wavelength found in natural sunlight and artificial light from smartphones, computers, tablets, and LED lights.
Natural blue light from the sun is important for regulating our sleep/wake cycle and boosting mood and brain function. Blue light from screens, on the other hand, poses risks.
When we use screens, our eyes are exposed to blue light for longer periods and at closer distances, which can lead to digital eye strain.
Over time, blue light may even impact long-term vision. Studies show that blue light reaches the retina, where it can cause oxidative stress and damage. Children may be more at risk than adults because their eyes let more blue light in.
With so much exposure to blue light, kids can benefit from protection. That’s why lutein supplements are coming into the spotlight. Research shows that lutein helps absorb and block harmful blue light from digital devices.
Key facts about lutein, “the eye vitamin”
Lutein is a naturally occurring carotenoid related to beta-carotene and vitamin A. This super nutrient has earned a reputation as the “eye vitamin.”
Lutein can be found in foods, but in the body, lutein accumulates in the retina, specifically the macula. This area of the eye is responsible for clear vision and acts as a natural filter, helping to block out blue light and protect those little eyes from harm.
Including a lutein supplement in your child’s routine helps to support their long-term eye health, especially in our screen-heavy world. Think of lutein as your child's personal defense against digital eye strain!
There are plenty of reasons to add a lutein supplement to your kid’s routine! As an antioxidant, lutein also quenches free radicals. Research shows that lutein supports brain health (potentially promoting better cognitive performance in kids) and protects skin from UV damage.
Getting enough lutein for eye health
How much lutein do kids need to keep their eyes healthy? There is no officially established Recommended Daily Allowance (RDA) for lutein for children. Still, experts suggest that children may need from 3 to 6 mg of lutein daily for eye health.
Lutein is most plentiful in dark green and yellow/orange vegetables.
Top lutein foods include:
- Kale (½ cup raw delivers about 6 mg of lutein)
- Winter squash (1 cup has about 6 mg)
- Spinach (1 cup raw = 8 mg of lutein)
- Romaine Lettuce (2 mg per cup shredded)
- Corn (3.6 mg per cup) Bell peppers (1.4 mg/green pepper
It is possible to get lutein through diet, and lutein foods are super-healthy. However, research shows that most people only get about 30% of the recommended intake of lutein. This includes children—and it’s no surprise, given how many kids avoid veggies like the plague!
That’s why a good lutein supplement can make so much sense. In good news, lutein supplements can be just as effective as lutein sourced from whole foods.
How bilberry complements lutein for eye health
What about bilberry, a berry that gets lots of buzz for supporting eye health? As it turns out, bilberry is a hot match with lutein.
That’s because bilberry is packed with antioxidants, particularly anthocyanins, which help support healthy blood flow to the eyes.
Bilberry can help provide your child with the well-rounded eye support they need, especially when they have prolonged screen time.
There is no recommended intake for bilberry, but research indicates that 50 mg daily can support children’s eye health.
Renzo’s lutein eye supplement: specially formulated for kids
Renzo’s Eye Spy Lutein supplement is specially formulated for kids navigating the world of screens—and for parents worried about their kid’s eye health.
Each melty tab contains 5 mg of FloraGLO® Lutein, the most clinically studied form of lutein for eye health. One tablet delivers the same lutein content as 40-50g of cooked spinach, making it a super convenient way to support your child’s eye health.
Plus, it’s boosted with 50 mg of bilberry extract for added antioxidant support.
Importantly, Eye Spy is formulated for kids with age-appropriate doses. So they get just enough lutein and bilberry for eye health, but not too much.
When and how to give kids a lutein eye supplement
Renzo’s Eye Spy is a once-a-day supplement. We recommend your child take one melty tab per day with a meal. Lutein and bilberry are more easily absorbed when taken with food, especially when there’s a bit of fat included.
Renzo’s melty tabs are easy to take, and kids love the fresh, fruity flavors. As a parent, you’ll love that we’ve left out sugar and other junk found in too many supplements. That makes it an easy “yes” for you both.
Since kids usually don’t get enough lutein from their diet, make Eye Spy part of their daily routine. Maintaining healthy lutein levels in the eyes can help keep your child’s vision in top shape over the long term.
Protect your child’s vision with lutein: the power of natural eye support
Protecting your child’s eyes is more important than ever. Studies show that blue light can strain eyes and potentially cause longer-term damage.
Even if you take screen breaks and set limits, realistically, your kids will be exposed to blue light regularly.
To protect your kids' eyes, make sure they’re getting enough lutein—a nutrient proven to support eye health.
Renzo’s Eye Spy lutein and bilberry melty tabs deliver the nutrients and antioxidants kids need to help filter harmful blue light and support long-term vision health. It’s a simple way to safeguard their eyes while they explore, learn, and play on their favorite devices.