Yashoda Hospitals > Medicine FAQS > Zeaxanthin

Zeaxanthin: Frequently Asked Questions Answered

What is Zeaxanthin?

Zeaxanthin is a strong antioxidant that protects the body against unstable molecules called free radicals. Free radicals are known to harm the cells, contribute negatively to ageing, and trigger heart disease, cancer, type 2 diabetes, and Alzheimer’s. 

Zeaxanthin is popularly known as an eye vitamin because, once the supplement is inside the body, it starts working on the eyes immediately. The mechanism works by making its way into the lens, macula, and fovea (the centre spot of the retina). 

The uses of Zeaxanthin are numerous and evidently improve the eye, skin, liver, and cardiovascular health.

What are the uses of Zeaxanthin?

Recently the beneficial effects of Zeaxanthin on the skin have been found. Supplementing with 2 mg of Zeaxanthin can enhance the overall skin tone.

Consuming Zeaxanthin per day is correlated with a reduced risk of eye diseases. A study from the Age-Related Eye Disease Study 2 (AREDS2) discovered that 10 mg of lutein and 2 mg of Zeaxanthin created a significant reduction in the progression to advanced age-related macular degeneration.

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    What are the side effects of Zeaxanthin?

    Zeaxanthin is considered to be a safe drug. As of now, there appear to be no known toxic side effects of Zeaxanthin supplements. The one identified side effect was the yellowing of some parts of the skin. However, that was not considered harmful. One study for an old woman discovered crystal development in the eyes upon consuming a high-lutein diet for several years. However, once the overdose was reduced, the crystals disappeared as well.

    What is Zeaxanthin

    Uses of Zeaxanthin

    Side effects of Zeaxanthin

    References

    1. Lutein + zeaxanthin and omega-3 fatty acids for age-related macular degeneration: the Age-Related Eye Disease Study 2 (AREDS2) randomized clinical trial
    2. Dietary guidance for lutein: consideration for intake recommendations is scientifically supported
    3. Zeaxanthin: Metabolism, Properties, and Antioxidant Protection of Eyes, Heart, Liver, and Skin

    Disclaimer: The information provided herein is accurate, updated and complete as per the best practices of the Company. Please note that this information should not be treated as a replacement for physical medical consultation or advice. We do not guarantee the accuracy and the completeness of the information so provided. The absence of any information and/or warning to any drug shall not be considered and assumed as an implied assurance of the Company. We do not take any responsibility for the consequences arising out of the aforementioned information and strongly recommend you for a physical consultation in case of any queries or doubts.

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    Frequently Asked Questions about Zeaxanthin

    Per the scientifically supported assessment, the recommended dose for lutein is 20 mg/day. Up to this limit, the drug is safe for consumption. The doses ranged from 8 to 40 mg/day for the study period of 7 days to 24 months.

    The recommended dose to boost eye health is 2 mg/day for Zeaxanthin.

    Meso-Zeaxanthin, Lutein, and Zeaxanthin belong to the same category of antioxidant carotenoids. While lutein and Zeaxanthin are found in leafy vegetables and fruits, Meso Zeaxanthin is rarely found in the diet. Nevertheless, all three supplements/ carotenoids act as protective antioxidants for the eyes and brain. Additionally, they support cognitive function, memory, sight, and mood.

    There isn’t any study that proves Zeaxanthin is a blood thinner. Blood samples have been collected at different stages and intervals but have not demonstrated a negative correlation.

    Zeaxanthin is often consumed with other vitamin supplements. If a patient is consuming blood-thinning agents, they must consult their doctor for the dosage.

    The supplements are typically available in the form of a soft-gel capsule. The best time to consume is at mealtime. Lutein is better absorbed by the body when ingested with a small portion of fat, for instance, olive oil. The recommended dosage is 6 mg to 30 mg daily.

    Lutein and Zeaxanthin are anti-inflammatory agents with several eye-health benefits. They protect the eyes from hazardous high-energy waves like ultraviolet rays. Lutein is popular for improving and preventing age-related macular disease -- a leading source of blindness and vision impairment. It provides better vision, especially in dim light or where glare is an issue.

    Yes, Carrots are a great source of Lutein and β-Carotene (the compound that gives yellow and orange colouring to fruits/ vegetables). They consist of antioxidants that have proven to benefit eye vision and shield against age-related degenerative eye diseases. The body turns beta carotene into vitamin A, a vital nutrient that helps see in the dark.

    There aren’t any studies that indicate whether Zeaxanthin raises blood pressure. Patients have not experienced it so far. Some specialists prescribe supplements for preventing a few diseases like cancer, type 2 diabetes, amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), Parkinson's disease, cognitive function, high blood pressure during pregnancy (pre-eclampsia), and heart disease.

    Yes, Zeaxanthin is known for being an eye vitamin. It reduces the risk of chronic eye infections and protects the eyes against the progression of these diseases such as macular degeneration and cataracts. Moreover, Zeaxanthin absorbs excess light energy to prevent damage to the eyes from ultraviolet rays of the sunlight.

    Zeaxanthin and lutein have identical chemical formulas. However, both are absorbed in different areas of the body and perform slightly different functions. Zeaxanthin is a dominant supplement in the centre of the macula, whereas lutein is more prominent at the corners of the retina and in the eyes’ rods.

    No, on the contrary, Zeaxanthin has proven to be beneficial in protecting the body against nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD), and alcoholic fatty liver disease (AFLD).

    No toxicity or negative side effects have been associated with supplementation with Zeaxanthin (per the prescribed dose), based on liver tests and visual examinations results.

    Consult the team of experts at Yashoda Hospitals to address all your concerns. The team is always at your service to provide you with the best healthcare solutions.