Lutein
Uses
Lutein is an antioxidant in the carotenoid family (a group of naturally occurring fat-soluble pigments found in plants). Lutein is the primary carotenoid present in the central area of the retina called the macula.
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3 StarsReliable and relatively consistent scientific data showing a substantial health benefit.
2 StarsContradictory, insufficient, or preliminary studies suggesting a health benefit or minimal health benefit.
1 StarFor an herb, supported by traditional use but minimal or no scientific evidence. For a supplement, little scientific support.
This supplement has been used in connection with the following health conditions:
| Used for | Why |
|---|---|
2 Stars Cataracts 15 mg three times per week | People with high intakes of the carotenoid lutein have been reported to be at a low risk for cataracts. People with low blood levels of antioxidants and those who eat few antioxidant-rich fruits and vegetables have been reported to be at high risk for cataracts. People who eat a lot of spinach and kale, which are high in and zeaxanthin, carotenoids similar to beta-carotene, have been reported to be at low risk for cataracts. Lutein, zeaxanthin, and beta-carotene offer the promise of protection because they are antioxidants. It is quite possible, however, that lutein is more important than beta-carotene, because lutein is found in the lens of the eye, while beta-carotene is not. In one preliminary study, lutein and zeaxanthin were the only carotenoids associated with protection from cataracts. People with the highest intake of lutein and zeaxanthin were half as likely to develop cataracts as those with the lowest intake. In another study, supplementation with 15 mg of lutein three times a week for one year significantly improved visual function in a small group of people with age-related cataracts.A double-blind trial found that supplementing with lutein and zeaxanthin did not prevent the development or progression of cataracts in people who had age-related macular degeneration. However, in the subgroup of patients with low dietary intake of lutein and zeaxanthin (20th percentile or lower) supplementing did exert a protective effect against cataracts. |
2 Stars Macular Degeneration (Zeaxanthin) 6 to 10 mg daily | Lutein and zeaxanthin are antioxidants that protect the retina from damage caused by sunlight. Lutein has been shown to help people with both early and advanced stages of the disease. and zeaxanthin are antioxidants in the carotenoid family. These carotenoids, found in high concentrations in spinach, collard greens, and kale, have an affinity for the part of the retina where macular degeneration occurs. Once there, they protect the retina from damage caused by sunlight. Harvard researchers reported that people eating the most lutein and zeaxanthin—an average of 5.8 mg per day—had a 57% decreased risk of macular degeneration, compared with people eating the least. While spinach and kale eaters have a lower risk of macular degeneration, blood levels of lutein did not correlate with risk of macular degeneration in one trial. In a double-blind study of people with macular degeneration, supplementation with lutein (10 mg per day) for one year significantly improved vision, compared with a placebo. Lutein was beneficial for people with both early and advanced stages of the disease. Lutein and zeaxanthin can be taken as supplements; 6 mg per day of lutein may be a useful amount. |
How It Works
How to Use It
People showing protection from macular degeneration have been reported to have eaten about 6 mg of lutein per day from food. Lutein, in supplemental form, should be taken with fat-containing food to improve absorption.1
Where to Find It
Spinach, kale, collard greens, romaine lettuce, leeks, peas, and egg yolks are good sources of lutein.2
Possible Deficiencies
While a deficiency has not been identified, people who eat more lutein-containing foods appear to be at lower risk of macular degeneration. One study found that adults with the highest dietary intake of lutein had a 57% decreased risk of macular degeneration compared with those people with the lowest intake, and of the carotenoids, lutein and zeaxanthin are most strongly associated with this protection.3 In a preliminary study, a similar link was suggested between low dietary lutein and increased risk of cataracts.4
Interactions
Interactions with Supplements, Foods, & Other Compounds
Lutein functions together with zeaxanthin, another antioxidant found in the same foods and supplements as lutein.
Interactions with Medicines
Side Effects
Side Effects
References
1. Roodenburg AJ, Leenen R, van het Hof KH, et al. Amount of fat in the diet affects bioavailability of lutein esters but not of alpha-carotene, beta-carotene, and vitamin E in humans. Am J Clin Nutr 2000;71:1187-93.
2. Goodrow EF, Wilson TA, Houde SC, et al. Consumption of one egg per day increases serum lutein and zeaxanthin concentrations in older adults without altering serum lipid and lipoprotein cholesterol concentrations. J Nutr 2006;136:2519-24.
3. Seddon JM, Ajani UA, Sperduto RD, et al. Dietary carotenoids, vitamins A, C, and E, and advanced age-related macular degeneration. JAMA 1994;272:1413-20.
4. Hankinson SE, Stampfer MJ, Seddon JM, et al. Nutrient intake and cataract extraction in women: a prospective study. Br Med J 1992;305(6849):335-9.
Last Review: 06-01-2015
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