Also known as: Xanthophyll, E161b
Lutein is a carotenoid pigment that accumulates in the macula of the eye, where it acts as a natural blue-light filter and antioxidant. It is strongly associated with protection against age-related macular degeneration and cataracts.
Lutein is a xanthophyll carotenoid that, together with its isomer zeaxanthin, forms the macular pigment of the human retina. This pigment absorbs high-energy blue light and protects photoreceptor cells from oxidative damage. The landmark AREDS2 trial (Age-Related Eye Disease Study 2) demonstrated that lutein and zeaxanthin supplementation reduced the risk of progression to advanced age-related macular degeneration (AMD), particularly in individuals with low dietary intake of these carotenoids. Epidemiological studies also link higher lutein intake to a reduced risk of cataracts. Beyond ocular health, emerging research suggests lutein may benefit cognitive function in older adults by reducing neuroinflammation and oxidative stress in the brain. Lutein is not synthesized by the body and must be obtained from diet or supplements.
The AREDS2 trial demonstrated that 10 mg lutein plus 2 mg zeaxanthin daily reduced the risk of progression to advanced AMD by approximately 18% in participants with low dietary carotenoid intake.
Prospective cohort studies have found that higher dietary intake of lutein is associated with a 20–30% reduction in the risk of nuclear and cortical cataracts.
Supplementation with lutein has been shown to improve measures of memory and processing speed in older adults, potentially by increasing macular pigment optical density, which correlates with brain lutein concentrations.
With a fat-containing meal for optimal absorption
Often combined with 2 mg zeaxanthin as used in the AREDS2 formulation.
Standardized daily supplementation with enhanced absorption
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