Macular degeneration, due to death of cells in the area of the retina responsible for central vision is a leading cause of blindness. Lutein, an antioxidant normally found in the retina is also abundant in dark green, leafy vegetables. A recent trial in which individuals in the first stages of macular degeneration ate 4 to 7 five ounce servings of spinach weekly showed improvement rather than worsening of the condition.