Recent study results highlighted the benefit of lutein supplementation for patients with early macular degeneration.
Nine randomized, placebo-controlled trials were evaluated by researchers. The trials involved 860 patients with age-related macular degeneration. The dosing of the lutein ranged from 2 mg/day to 20 mg/day and the supplementation was anywhere from 2 to 24 months.
Researchers analyzed oral lutein taken alone or taken in conjunction with zeaxanthin or epilutein. Macular pigment ocular density (MPOD) and best-corrected visual acuity (BCVA) was noted as well.
What researchers discovered was that the lutein-containing supplementation provided a statistically significant improvement in MPOD and BCVA for patients with early-stage AMD. Those with intermediate or severe forms of the disease did not see improvements.
While the study did have many limitations including differences in dosing and limited follow-ups, researchers did note that lutein-based supplementation does offer measurable visual benefits for those with early-stage AMD.
