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Abstract
The carotenoid xanthophylls, lutein and zeaxanthin, accumulate in the eye lens and macular region of the retina. Lutein and zeaxanthin concentrations in the macula are greater than those found in plasma and other tissues. A relationship between macular pigment optical density, a marker of lutein and zeaxanthin concentration in the macula, and lens optical density, an antecedent of cataractous changes, has been suggested. The xanthophylls may act to protect the eye from ultraviolet phototoxicity via quenching reactive oxygen species and/or other mechanisms. Some observational studies have shown that generous intakes of lutein and zeaxanthin, particularly from certain xanthophyll-rich foods like spinach, broccoli and eggs, are associated with a significant reduction in the risk for cataract (up to 20%) and for age-related macular degeneration (up to 40%). While the pathophysiology of cataract and age-related macular degeneration is complex and contains both environmental and genetic components, research studies suggest dietary factors including antioxidant vitamins and xanthophylls may contribute to a reduction in the risk of these degenerative eye diseases. Further research is necessary to confirm these observations.
Key teaching points:
• Lutein and zeaxanthin are the principal carotenoids in the eye lens and macula lutea of the retina.
• Risk factors for cataract and age related macular degeneration (AMD) are associated with the generation of reactive oxygen species and suggest a preventive role for dietary antioxidants.
• Observational studies indicate generous consumption of xanthophyll-rich foods like spinach, broccoli and eggs is associated with a reduced risk of cataract and AMD.
• Further research is necessary to clarify the role of dietary antioxidants, including lutein and zeaxanthin, in the eye and confirm their potential in the primary and/or secondary prevention of cataract and AMD.
Key teaching points:
• Lutein and zeaxanthin are the principal carotenoids in the eye lens and macula lutea of the retina.
• Risk factors for cataract and age related macular degeneration (AMD) are associated with the generation of reactive oxygen species and suggest a preventive role for dietary antioxidants.
• Observational studies indicate generous consumption of xanthophyll-rich foods like spinach, broccoli and eggs is associated with a reduced risk of cataract and AMD.
• Further research is necessary to clarify the role of dietary antioxidants, including lutein and zeaxanthin, in the eye and confirm their potential in the primary and/or secondary prevention of cataract and AMD.
Supported by the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) Agricultural Research Service under Cooperative Agreement No. 581950-9-001, the Egg Nutrition Center, and NIH Training Grant No. T32AG00209. The contents of this publication do not necessarily reflect the views or policies of the USDA nor does mention of trade names, commercial products or organizations imply endorsement by the U.S. government.
Notes
An honorarium was provided for support of this manuscript by the Egg Nutrition Center. Dr. Blumberg is a member of the Scientific Advisory Panel of the American Egg Board/Egg Nutrition Center.
Presented, in part, at a meeting sponsored by the American Egg Board and Egg Nutrition Center held at Amelia Island, FL on February 25–27, 2000.