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Age-related macular degeneration is the major reason Americans go blind. But, lutein is an antioxidant that can help prevent this condition. Lutein is a carotenoid found in green, leafy vegetables (think spinach), fruits and eggs, and it is just as important to your health, if not more so, than beta carotene.
Lutein acts as an antioxidant, protecting cells against the damaging effects of free radicals. But, because your body doesn't make lutein, it must be obtained from food or vitamin supplements. Since lutein is definitely something you want in your body, what's the most effective way to get it?
Patients were given different sources of lutein, including supplements, spinach and eggs, all of which provided the same amount of lutein per day. When the results were measured, however, those who had eaten eggs had THREE TIMES more lutein circulating in their blood. Why? The lutein in eggs comes in a lipid form and is more highly bioavailable.
Although the study didn't go into more detail, if those patients ate raw eggs, I believe they would've absorbed even higher amounts of lutein.
Journal of Nutrition August 2004;134(8):1887-93