What is MPOD?

Macular pigment is comprised of Zeaxanthin and Lutein, which are found in the center of the macula (fovea) at a natural 2:1 ratio. MPOD (Macular Pigment Optical Density) is
important for three specific reasons:

1. Low macular pigment is a key risk factor for Age-related Macular Degeneration (AMD), the leading cause of significant vision loss over age 55
2. Macular pigment absorbs harmful blue light, protecting the photo-receptors from damage
3. Macular pigment improves visual performance, including:

Visual acuity – ability to see clearly, especially in fine detail situations like needlepoint or reading in low light situations.
Contrast sensitivity – ability to discern objects from their background (i.e. seeing a white golf ball or baseball clearly against a light blue sky).
Light sensitivity – visual discomfort in sunlight or when exposed to bright light.
Glare recovery – recovery from temporary “blindness” caused by high intensity lighting, such as automobiles or stadium lights.