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Supplement ingredient

Lutein and zeaxanthin

carotenoids for the eyes

Carotenoids concentrated in the macula of the eye. The AREDS2 study tested them for people with age-related macular degeneration (AMD).

Evidence: Strong

Evidence by use: Strong for slowing progression in people who already have moderate-to-late AMD; not shown for prevention in healthy people. NIH's AREDS2 study found people taking lutein and zeaxanthin in place of beta-carotene had an additional 20% reduced risk of progression to late AMD after 10 years. It did not show prevention of AMD in people without it.

At a glance

Typical studied dose
The AREDS2 formula used 10 mg lutein and 2 mg zeaxanthin per day, with vitamin C (500 mg), vitamin E (400 IU), zinc (80 mg) and copper (2 mg).

Food sources

Animal sources
Egg yolk (well absorbed), small amounts in dairy and fish.
Plant sources
Kale, spinach, collards, corn, peas, broccoli, marigold (supplement source).

Background and testing

This is not an essential nutrient, so there is no deficiency to diagnose.

Good to know
Vision changes need an eye exam.
Who tends to use it
Older adults and people with moderate-to-late AMD.
How it is tested
Eye exam by an optometrist or ophthalmologist; macular pigment optical density tests exist but are not routine.

Supplement forms

Common forms
Free lutein, lutein esters, zeaxanthin (including meso-zeaxanthin), softgels, gummies, and AREDS2 formulas.
More effective
Softgels in oil, taken with a meal containing fat; AREDS2-type formula only if advised by an eye doctor for AMD.
Less effective
Using AREDS2 doses for prevention in healthy people (not shown); dry tablets without fat; formulas containing beta-carotene for current or former smokers.

Safety, interactions and halal notes

Safety and interactions
Lutein and zeaxanthin showed no increased lung cancer risk in AREDS2, unlike beta-carotene, which nearly doubled lung cancer risk in current smokers. High carotenoid intake can cause harmless yellowing of the skin.
Who should avoid it or ask a clinician first
Current smokers should avoid beta-carotene-containing eye vitamins. Ask an eye doctor before using AREDS2 formulas.
Halal note
Typically plant-derived (marigold). Check softgel shells and gummy bases.

Frequently asked questions

Do lutein supplements protect my eyes?

AREDS2 showed benefit for slowing AMD in people who already have it. It did not show prevention in healthy people.

Sources

  1. NIH study confirms benefit of supplements for slowing age-related macular degeneration (National Eye Institute)

← Back to the full nutrient guide

This page is for education only and is not medical advice. These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. Supplements are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease. Talk to a qualified clinician before starting a supplement, especially if you are pregnant, breastfeeding, take medicine or have a medical condition. Daily needs are US reference intakes for adults 19-50.

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