Lutein Esters Increase Macular Pigment Density

WATERFORD, Ireland--Supplementation with lutein esters increased macular pigment density and serum lutein levels in patients with early and late-stage age-related macular degeneration (AMD), according to a study published in the July issue of Experimental Eye Research (79, 1:21-27, 2004) (www.sciencedirect.com/science/journal/00144835).

In the study, researchers evaluated the effect of a daily 20 mg lutein ester supplement (as La Grange, Ill.-based Cognis Nutritions Xangold®; equivalent of 10 mg/day free lutein) in patients with early AMD, in terms of macular pigment optical density (MPOD) and plasma concentrations of lutein. MPOD was measured using a flicker photometric technique in seven AMD patients and six age-matched controls over a period of 18 to 20 weeks. Plasma lutein increased from a mean baseline concentration of 182 (127) ng ml-1 to a peak of 1077 (165) ng ml-1 in AMD patients, and from 152 (57) to 1110 (605) ng ml-1 in control subjects. Mean MPOD increased significantly from a baseline of 024 to a peak of 031 in AMD sufferers. This mean increment of 007 was the same for the age-matched controls (baseline: 020; peak: 027). The researchers concluded the results of the study demonstrate for the first time that AMD is not associated with intestinal malabsorption of the relevant macular carotenoids, and that a diseased macula can accumulate and stabilise lutein and/or zeaxanthin. Moreover, the beneficial effects of lutein supplementation, if any, may be extended to subjects with established AMD, the researchers added.

"This important news builds on the global research Cognis has supported on eye health," said Carrie Potaczek, Xangold Product Manager, Cognis Nutrition & Health. "While we know that it may help reduce the risks of AMD, now we have exciting new evidence demonstrating that Xangold natural lutein esters may benefit those patients already in the early stages of AMD."