Lutein Esters Increase Macular Pigment Density 31430

Lutein Esters Increase Macular Pigment Density

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

In the study, researchers evaluated the effect of a daily 20mg lutein ester supplement (as La Grange, Ill.-based Cognis NutritionsXangold®; equivalent of 10 mg/d free lutein) in patientswith early AMD, in terms of macular pigment optical density (MPOD) and plasmaconcentrations of lutein. MPOD was measured using a flicker photometrictechnique in seven AMD patients and six age-matched controls over a period of 18to 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 significantlyfrom a baseline of 0.24 to a peak of 0.31 in AMD sufferers. This mean incrementof 0.07 was the same for the age-matched controls (baseline: 0.20; peak: 0.27).The researchers concluded the results of the study demonstrate for the firsttime that AMD is not associated with intestinal malabsorption of the relevantmacular carotenoids, and that a diseased macula can accumulate and stabilizelutein and/or zeaxanthin.

Moreover, the beneficial effects of lutein supplementation, ifany, may be extended to subjects with established AMD, the researchers added.

This important news builds on the global research Cognishas supported on eye health, said Carrie Potaczek, Xangold product manager,Cognis Nutrition & Health. While we know that it may help reduce therisks of AMD, now we have exciting new evidence demonstrating that Xangoldnatural lutein esters may benefit those patients already in the early stages ofAMD.

For more information, visit www.cognis.com or Booth #1300 atSupplySide West.