Lutein and the macula
Your body can't make lutein, so it comes from food. Lutein and zeaxanthin collect in the macula, the center of sharp vision, as a yellow pigment that absorbs blue light and acts as an antioxidant. Spinach, kale, collard greens, broccoli, corn, and egg yolks are rich sources.
What AREDS2 showed
In the NEI's AREDS2 trial, people who already had intermediate or advanced age-related macular degeneration in one eye lowered their risk of progression with a formula containing 10 mg lutein and 2 mg zeaxanthin. Swapping beta-carotene for lutein also avoided beta-carotene's lung cancer risk in smokers. There's no solid proof that lutein prevents AMD in healthy eyes or relieves dry eye or eye strain.
This article is general health information and is not a substitute for diagnosis or treatment. If symptoms persist, see a doctor.
FAQ
- When should I take lutein?
- It's fat-soluble, so take it with a meal that has some fat.
- Is long-term lutein safe?
- At standard doses it's generally safe; very high intake can tint skin yellow.
Sources reviewed: 2026-10-26
References
- Age-Related Eye Disease Study 2 Research Group. (2013). Lutein + zeaxanthin and omega-3 fatty acids for age-related macular degeneration: The AREDS2 randomized clinical trial. JAMA, 309(19), 2005–2015.
- National Eye Institute. AREDS/AREDS2 Clinical Trials. NIH.
- Chew, E. Y., et al. (2022). Long-term outcomes of adding lutein/zeaxanthin and ω-3 fatty acids to the AREDS supplements on age-related macular degeneration progression: AREDS2 report 28. JAMA Ophthalmology, 140(7), 692–698.