Lutein & Zeaxanthin

More and more, our patients ask us if they should be taking a lutein supplement for their eyes.  This may be because vitamin producers are touting the benefits of lutein for eye health and filling store shelves with lutein supplements, but many doctors are not as confident about the benefits of taking lutein yet.

Lutein and zeaxanthin are the two major carotenoids found in the pigment layer of the macula, the sensitive central portion of the retina.  Together they act as a UV filter, protecting the eye from the blue-light damage that can increase the risk of macular degeneration.

In 2001, a study carried out by the University of Chicago called the Lutein Antioxidant Supplementation Trail (LAST) did find that 10 mg of lutein a day may slightly improve both the macular pigment density and the visual acuity of patients with macular degeneration.  The scientists behind this study, however, do recognize that further research needs to be done on a larger, more diverse sample to truly be able to assess lutein’s effect on eye health (Journal of the American Optometric Association, 2004).

Some patients, especially those with macular degeneration or those with a family history of the disease, may find the LAST findings convincing enough to start adding lutein and zeaxanthin to their diets.  For the prevention of worsening macular degeneration, the dose recommended by LAST is 10 mg per day.  This can be taken as a supplement or found in the following foods:
Kale, 1 cup (cooked)………………………………….. 23.8 mg

Spinach, 1 cup (cooked)……………………………… 20.4 mg

Corn, 1 cup (cooked)…………………………………. 2.2 mg

Broccoli, 1 cup (cooked)……………………………… 1.6 mg

Romaine lettuce, 1 cup (raw)………………………… 1.3 mg

Eggs, 2 large…………………………………………….. 0.3 mg

Chart Source: The American Optometric Association.  “Foods with Lutein and Zeaxanthin.” Lutein and Zeaxanthin. Web.  3 August 2012. <https://www.aoa.org/x11815.xml>

All patients should consult with their primary care doctors before starting any over-the-counter supplement.

Check back with us soon; in the coming weeks we’ll be sharing more information about vitamins and supplements that may improve eye health!

Doctors Tarantino and Cho
Tarantino Eye Center