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Abstract
Lutein and zeaxanthin are xanthophyll carotenoids found particularly in dark-green leafy vegetables and in egg yolks. They are widely distributed in tissues and are the principal carotenoids in the eye lens and macular region of the retina. Epidemiologic studies indicating an inverse relationship between xanthophyll intake or status and both cataract and age-related macular degeneration suggest these compounds can play a protective role in the eye. Some observational studies have also shown these xanthophylls may help reduce the risk of certain types of cancer, particularly those of the breast and lung. Emerging studies suggest as well a potential contribution of lutein and zeaxanthin to the prevention of heart disease and stroke. Even as the evidence for a role of lutein and zeaxanthin in disease prevention continues to evolve, particularly from human studies directed to their bioavailability, metabolism, and dose-response relationships with intermediary biomarkers and clinical outcomes, it is worth noting that recommendations to consume foods rich in xanthophylls are consistent with current dietary guidelines.
Key teaching points:
• Rich dietary sources of lutein and zeaxanthin are dark green leafy vegetables and egg yolks.
• Many epidemiologic studies indicate an inverse relationship between xanthophyll intake and/or status and both cataract and age-related macular degeneration.
• Observational studies and animal model data suggest a potential protective role for xanthophylls against certain kinds of cancers, with promising albeit inconsistent results for breast and lung cancers, and largely a null outcome for bladder cancer.
• A limited body of experimental and epidemiological evidence suggests a potential role for lutein and zeaxanthin in reducing the risk for coronary heart disease and stroke.
• Dietary guidelines for promoting health are consistent with generous intakes of foods rich in lutein and zeaxanthin.
Key teaching points:
• Rich dietary sources of lutein and zeaxanthin are dark green leafy vegetables and egg yolks.
• Many epidemiologic studies indicate an inverse relationship between xanthophyll intake and/or status and both cataract and age-related macular degeneration.
• Observational studies and animal model data suggest a potential protective role for xanthophylls against certain kinds of cancers, with promising albeit inconsistent results for breast and lung cancers, and largely a null outcome for bladder cancer.
• A limited body of experimental and epidemiological evidence suggests a potential role for lutein and zeaxanthin in reducing the risk for coronary heart disease and stroke.
• Dietary guidelines for promoting health are consistent with generous intakes of foods rich in lutein and zeaxanthin.
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 Egg Nutrition Center and the Advisory Board of the Lutein Information Bureau of Kemin Foods, L.C.
Presented, in part, at a meeting sponsored by the American Egg Board and Egg Nutrition Center and held at the U.S. Department of Agriculture, Washington, D.C. on September 23, 2003: First International Scientific Symposium on Eggs and Human Health: The Transition from Restrictions to Recommendation.