The health of our eyes and the quality of our vision are directly tied to the retina. At the center of the retina lies the macula, the most important part for sharp, focused vision. This area contains the densest collection of photoreceptors, meaning even mild disruption or disease can significantly affect how we see.

​​​​​​​Carotenoids form a key part of the macular pigment, and because our bodies cannot make these nutrients, they must come from the foods we eat. LifeMeter provides an innovative way to measure these carotenoids, offering valuable insight into the nutritional and metabolic health of your retina. For the first time, we can track how well your eyes are being supported at the cellular level and take proactive steps to protect and preserve your vision.

Why Carotenoids Matter

Carotenoids such as lutein, zeaxanthin, and meso-zeaxanthin naturally accumulate in the macula, the part of the retina responsible for central, detailed vision. These nutrients act as protective pigments, absorbing harmful high-energy light and reducing oxidative stress that can damage cells as we age. By supporting cellular metabolism and maintaining the integrity of photoreceptors, carotenoids help preserve healthy vision and protect against premature aging of the eyes.

The benefits extend well beyond sharper sight. Adequate carotenoid levels have been linked to faster visual processing, reduced glare, improved night vision, fewer headaches, and enhanced visual performance. Beyond vision, research also associates carotenoids with improved heart and brain function, lower levels of inflammation, and reduced severity of conditions such as arthritis.

Measuring your carotenoid levels provides a clear and measurable way to understand and manage your long-term wellness. During your exam, Dr. Funnell will review your carotenoid score alongside your age, family history, and overall cellular health to determine the most effective strategies for protecting your retina and supporting lasting visual performance.

What Is LifeMeter?

LifeMeter, developed by MacuHealth, is a groundbreaking medical device that measures carotenoid levels in the body quickly and non-invasively. Using advanced reflection spectroscopy, LifeMeter evaluates carotenoid concentrations in the skin, which are closely correlated with the levels stored in the retina and brain.

LifeMeter provides an objective, painless snapshot of your nutritional status. The results give both patients and eye care providers meaningful insight into how diet and supplementation are supporting vision and overall health.

Originally created as a research tool, LifeMeter was designed to determine whether clinically measuring carotenoid levels could help predict the risk of eye disease and reveal the health and function of the retina. Its accuracy and effectiveness proved so strong that it is now available in optometry practices, offering patients a powerful way to monitor and protect their long-term eye health.

How LifeMeter Works

By utilizing the fingertip rather than the palm, LifeMeter achieves greater precision and reliability compared to older technologies. Its accuracy is supported by more than 30 independent, peer-reviewed studies across a wide range of patient groups, establishing LifeMeter as a trusted and effective clinical tool for monitoring long-term eye and overall health.

LifeMeter’s Advantages

• Fast & Convenient: The test takes less than three minutes.

• Non-Invasive: No pricks, pokes, or discomfort - just a quick fingertip scan.

• Consistent & Accurate: Fingertip measurement offers superior reliability compared to similar devices.

• Macular Health Insight: Carotenoid levels correlate with macular pigment density, providing a clearer picture of your risk for macular degeneration.
  
  

Protect Your Vision with Dr. Funnell Optometry

Dr. Funnell believes that an annual eye exam should involve far more than simply updating a prescription for glasses or contact lenses. Our focus is on evaluating the complete health of your eyes. For years, we have been committed to this comprehensive approach, and LifeMeter represents the latest advancement in our efforts to safeguard your vision. By taking the time during your annual visit to assess every aspect of ocular health, we can stay ahead of potentially sight-threatening conditions and ensure your eyes remain healthy for years to come.

Schedule a consultation at Dr. Funnell Optometry to experience the benefits of LifeMeter testing and learn how you can strengthen your macular health for the future