Abstract:
The macular carotenoids, lutein, RR-zeaxanthin, and RS-meso-zeaxanthin are widely recognized in supporting several aspects of vision performance through the lifecycle. Research over the past 200 plus years has lent credence to their biological plausibility based on their unique biophysical, anatomical and biochemical capacity to influence processes supporting normal retinal health as well as affect the pathogenesis and progression of retinal diseases. These include age-related macular degeneration, dry eye syndrome, cataract, and other blinding disorders. The role of macular carotenoids in overall health and wellness can be further appreciated thanks to research over the past two decades demonstrating their preferential accumulation in the brain. Similar to the deposition in the macula, this accumulation is relevant through all life stages. Data both at the basic and clinical levels, builds a rationale for the pivotal role of these macular carotenoids in mediating the cross-talk between the visual and cognitive centers through the lifecycle. Epidemiological and clinical supplementation studies have shown functional and nutritional relevance to vision performance and brain health in healthy adults.
To date, supplementation studies in children are missing and to address this gap, a study was recently completed in children 5-12 years of age wherein the benefits of 12 mg/day lutein and zeaxanthin supplementation over 6 months was shown to favorable influence lutein status, MPOD, and aspects of vision and cognitive performance. Additionally, of the human body, and, which has been adequately demonstrated in healthy adults.
Dry eye syndrome is cited as one of the most common reasons for visiting an eye doctor. Nutritional therapy may help as a first line therapy for its management. Given the role of oxidative stress in mediating dry eye issues, a clinical study was conducted to confirm the efficacy of a unique antioxidant-based formula which included 24 mg macular carotenoids along with 200 mg curcuminoids and 600 IU vitamin D3 over an 8-week supplementation period in individuals with dry eye discomfort. Supplementation significantly increased tear volume and tear film stability and reduced tear osmolarity. Corneal and conjunctival staining and tear levels of MMP- 9 were significantly reduced supporting the role of this macular carotenoid plus formula in influencing aspects of ocular surface integrity and inflammation.
These emerging clinical data continues to build on existing science supporting the role of macular carotenoids as functionally relevant nutrients for eye health and cognition, as well as those looking for complementary approaches to manage dry eye discomfort.
