Lutein and zeaxanthin

Lutein and zeaxanthin are dihydroxy xanthophyll carotenoids that accumulate in the macula, where they form the macular pigment and filter blue light. Dark green leafy vegetables (kale, spinach), corn and egg yolk are the main dietary sources. In the AREDS2 randomised trial (4203 participants at risk of advanced age-related macular degeneration), adding 10 mg lutein plus 2 mg zeaxanthin to the original AREDS supplement did not reduce progression in the primary analysis, but a subgroup with the lowest dietary intake of lutein/zeaxanthin benefited. AREDS2 also showed that lutein/zeaxanthin is an appropriate substitute for beta-carotene, which raised lung-cancer incidence in former smokers. Evidence for cognitive benefits exists but is less robust.