Lutein
Also known as: Marigold extract (lutein), Xanthophyll
Lutein (with zeaxanthin) forms macular pigment. The AREDS2 trial supported lutein+zeaxanthin in AMD-risk formulations; observational and interventional data link higher macular pigment to visual performance measures such as glare tolerance and contrast sensitivity.
Last reviewed: 2026-10-06 · 0 indexed studies
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Overview
Lutein is a xanthophyll carotenoid concentrated in the macula of the eye, where it filters blue light and acts as an antioxidant. It is one of the better-supported eye-health nutrients, anchored by the AREDS2 trial for age-related macular degeneration (AMD) progression.
Mechanism & Function
Mechanism of Action
Deposits in the macula as macular pigment, absorbing short-wavelength blue light and quenching reactive oxygen species in retinal tissue.
Physiological Role
A dietary carotenoid that accumulates in the retina (macula) and brain; not synthesised by the body.
Primary Pathways
Performance / Health Relevance
Relevant to visual performance (glare recovery, contrast) rather than physical performance.
Evidence Review
No human clinical studies indexed for this ingredient yet.
No meta-analyses or systematic reviews indexed for this ingredient yet.
Dimensions marked N/A have no indexed evidence of that class. They are shown as unavailable rather than scored.
Practical Use & Dosage
- Minimum Effective Dose
- 6–10 mg/day
- Optimal Range
- 10–20 mg/day (often with 2 mg zeaxanthin)
- Upper / Caution Level
- Well tolerated in trials up to 20 mg/day long-term
- Timing
- Daily, with a fat-containing meal
- Best Format
- Free lutein or lutein esters from marigold; fat-based softgels aid absorption
- Bioavailability
- Fat-soluble carotenoid — absorption depends heavily on co-ingested fat.
- Absorption Considerations
- Effects on macular pigment build over months of consistent use.
Safety & Interactions
Side Effects
- •Harmless skin yellowing at very high intakes (rare)
Contraindications
- None well established
Drug Interactions
- •None well established
Who Should Avoid
- •None well established
Monitoring
None routinely.
Frequently Asked Questions
Auto-generated from indexed evidence — dosage, safety, interactions, and more.
When is Lutein typically used or indicated?
Lutein is most commonly used for: Eye-health formulas, Blue-light/screen-time supplements, Healthy-ageing products. A dietary carotenoid that accumulates in the retina (macula) and brain; not synthesised by the body.
How does Lutein work?
Deposits in the macula as macular pigment, absorbing short-wavelength blue light and quenching reactive oxygen species in retinal tissue.
What is the recommended dose of Lutein?
The optimal range is 10–20 mg/day (often with 2 mg zeaxanthin). with a minimum effective dose of 6–10 mg/day. Best taken: Daily, with a fat-containing meal. Upper / caution level: Well tolerated in trials up to 20 mg/day long-term.
What are the side effects of Lutein?
Reported side effects include: Harmless skin yellowing at very high intakes (rare). Monitoring: None routinely.
Does Lutein interact with medications?
Known or theoretical interactions: None well established. Always check with a clinician before combining with prescription medication.
Who should avoid Lutein?
Lutein is generally not recommended for: None well established; and None well established.
How strong is the evidence for Lutein?
Evidence level: Limited (overall score 50/100), based on 0 indexed studies on SuppIndex.
Research & References (0)
No studies match this filter
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Research Overview
Limited EvidenceCite this ingredient
One-click citation export in APA, MLA, Chicago, BibTeX, or HTML. The URL below is stable and safe to link.
Stable URL
https://thesuppindex.com/ingredients/lutein
SuppIndex. (2026). Lutein: Evidence summary, dosage and clinical studies. Retrieved October 16, 2026, from https://thesuppindex.com/ingredients/lutein
Based on 0 indexed studies · Evidence level: Limited.
Goal Ratings
Stack Compatibility
Almost always paired with zeaxanthin; combined with omega-3 in eye formulas.