14/11/2025
Lutein and Zeaxanthin Support Brain Health
Lutein and zeaxanthin are carotenoids (like beta-carotene) that are found in green leafy vegetables and other green and yellow vegetables. Eggs (yolks) are also a good source of these nutrients. They accumulate in the macular pigment of the retina and in brain tissue. While most research has focused on their role in supporting eye health, recent research has looked at their importance in brain health.
A new study published in the journal Frontiers in Aging Neuroscience suggests that lutein and zeaxanthin may offer benefits in supporting a more youthful brain throughout adulthood.
The study measured lutein in the eyes of 60 adult participant’s ages 25 to 45, by having them look into a scope and respond to a flickering light. Then, using electrodes on the scalp, neural activity in the brain was measured while the participants performed a task that tested attention.
Most other studies of this type have focused on older adults, after there may have already been some level of decline in cognition. This research focused on healthy young to middle-aged adults to see whether there was a notable difference between those with higher and lower eye lutein and zeaxanthin levels.
The study found that participants with higher eye levels of these important carotenoids had neural responses that resembled younger individuals compared to their age-related peers who had a lower eye levels.
What you eat can have an impact on over-all health throughout your life. This study suggests that lutein and zeaxanthin may help to keep you cognitively fit as you age.
Learn more about lutein: https://askthescientists.com/qa/lutein/
Learn more about zeaxanthin: https://askthescientists.com/qa/zeaxanthin/
https://www.frontiersin.org/.../10.../fnagi.2017.00183/full
