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.
Lutein has been used in
connection with the following conditions (refer to the individual
health concern for complete information):
Who is likely to be deficient?
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.1 In a preliminary study, a
similar link was suggested between low dietary lutein and increased risk of cataracts.2
How much is usually taken?
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.3
Are there any side effects or interactions?
No adverse effects from lutein have been reported.
Lutein functions together with zeaxanthin, another antioxidant found in the same foods and supplements as
lutein.
At the time of writing, there were no well-known drug interactions
with lutein.
References:1. 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.
2. 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.
3. 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.