Latest Insights Presented on Dietary Macular Carotenoids and Eye Health

7 June 2013 --- Numerous studies and clinical trials provide evidence of the vital role of lutein and zeaxanthin in eye health. Deposited in the macula and lens, these dietary carotenoids act as “internal sunglasses” protecting the eye against light-induced oxidative damage.

During the Vision Congress, hosted by Kemin Industries and DSM Nutritional Products Europe Ltd., world-renowned experts presented the latest research and insights. The congress in Lisbon, Portugal, June 6, 2013 showcased an increasing evidence for the role of lutein and zeaxanthin, and other micronutrients, in eye health and visual performance.
 
Dr. Rubens Belfort Jr. from Federal University of São Paulo opened the Vision Congress, highlighting the importance and function of different eye structures, age-related macular disease and related eye pathologies affecting the aging population.
 
Prof. J. Dawczynski from the University Hospital of Leipzig presented results of the LUTEGA study, which looked at long term effects of lutein, zeaxanthin and omega-3 long-chain polyunsaturated fatty acids (LCPUFAs) supplementation on optical density of macular pigment in age related macular degeneration (AMD) patients. Results showed that supplementation with dietary macular carotenoids and omega-3-LCPUFAs may be beneficial for AMD patients. FloraGLO Lutein, the most clinically researched lutein brand worldwide, was the lutein used in the supplement provided to patients.
 
Results from the Zeaxanthin Visual Function Study (ZVF) and Lutein Antioxidant Supplementation Trial (LAST) were presented by Dr. Stuart Richer from James A. Lovell Federal Health Care Center, North Chicago, Illinois, U.S. Results showed lutein and zeaxanthin may help to improve visual function and performance in AMD patients, namely by contributing to improved night driving skills, visual acuity and shape discrimination, photopic contrast sensitivity and improved glare recovery times. A complementary role between lutein and zeaxanthin was observed for some of the assessed parameters.
 
Improvements in visual performance and visual comfort parameters have been associated with lutein and zeaxanthin supplementation, as highlighted by Prof. B. Randall Hammond from the University of Georgia. Hammond also addressed the importance of lutein and zeaxanthin across the lifespan and presented exciting data indicating a role for lutein in brain function.
 
Dr. John Paul SanGiovanni, of the National Eye Institute, presented the primary and secondary analysis of the latest Age-Related Eye Disease Study 2 (AREDS2) results. He noted that the dietary supplements lutein and zeaxanthin helped reduce the progression of AMD.  People reporting lowest intakes of lutein and zeaxanthin from dietary sources were less likely to progress to advanced AMD if they took the AREDS2 dietary supplement with lutein and zeaxanthin.

Cynthia Rousselot, from EAS Strategic Advice, guided the group through the challenging European Union claims procedures and implementation of the regulation, presenting the latest updates and practical impact for eye care supplement products.
 
Peter Wennstrom, from The Healthy Marketing Team, shared innovative marketing ideas and concepts for functional ingredients in the Health Claims European Food Safety Authority EFSA area.
 
The Vision Congress reiterates that lutein benefits several parameters of eye health. Many studies show supplementation with FloraGLO Lutein increases macular pigment optical density (MPOD) levels, improves visual function and reduces the risk of age-related eye diseases. Thus, increasing the consumption of lutein may be a safe, easy and effective measure for maintaining healthy vision.
 
FloraGLO Lutein is manufactured by Kemin and is intended for inclusion in food supplements or as an ingredient in foods and beverages. Kemin and DSM have joined forces and are working under an exclusive strategic alliance to globally commercialize FloraGLO Lutein products.