Lutein and Zeaxanthin

Nutrient pigments chemically related to beta-carotene that are abundant in green leafy vegetables and yellow and orange-colored fruits and vegetables. These are the only two known food pigments that collect in the macula, where they are thought to protect it from light damage (blue light).

Lutein and zeaxanthin are nutrient pigments that are abundant in green leafy vegetables and yellow and orange-colored fruits and vegetables. These pigmented carotenoids (the general term for nutrient pigments, of which lutein zeaxanthin and beta-carotene belong) are highly concentrated around the macula and provide its characteristic yellow appearance. Lutein and zeaxanthin are thought to protect the macula from oxidative stress due to ultraviolet light exposure. A clinical trial-AREDS II, begun in October 2006-is testing a slightly adjusted AREDS supplementation in combination with different dosages of lutein, zeaxanthin and/or omega-3 fatty acids. If you use nutritional supplementation, please consult with your personal physician and ophthalmologist as your personal health situation may require monitoring or a non-typical approach and nutritional supplements may interfere with prescribed medicines.