Lutein & Zeaxanthin

Lutein and Zeaxanthin

Also known as: Macular carotenoids, FloraGLO Lutein

Supplement

Content by: OpenSupplement Editorial Team | Medical review: pending | Last updated: April 13, 2026

Evidence ★★★★★5/5

Best for

CognitionInflammation

Typical dose10 mg lutein + 2 mg zeaxanthin/day

SafetyNo significant concerns

Onset4–8 weeks

Cost$10-20/mo

References4 studies cited

TL;DR

The 'eye vitamins'; carotenoids that filter blue light
High evidence for slowing Macular Degeneration (AREDS2)
Moderate evidence for reducing eye strain and improving visual performance
Must be taken together (typically in a 5:1 ratio)
Excellent safety profile
Affordable: ~$10-18/month
Best for: Eye health, screen-time protection

What it is

These two pigments are the only ones found in the macula (the center of your retina). They act like 'natural sunglasses,' absorbing harmful blue light and protecting the delicate photoreceptors from being 'fried' by light exposure.

What the research says

Macular degenerationRelevance: High

Evidence

5/5

Onset speed

2/5

Typical dose: 10 mg lutein + 2 mg zeaxanthin/day

These are the 'stars' of the AREDS2 formula. Evidence. Replacing beta-carotene with Lutein and Zeaxanthin was found to be more effective and safer for reducing the risk of advanced AMD. They are mandatory for anyone with early-stage vision loss. ^[1]^[2]^[3]^[4]

DISCLAIMER: The information on this page is for educational purposes only and has not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This content is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. Consult a qualified healthcare professional before using any dietary supplement, especially if you are pregnant, nursing, taking medication, or have a medical condition.

This page may contain affiliate links. If you purchase through these links, we may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. Learn more.

Lutein & Zeaxanthin on Amazon

$10-20/mo (estimated)

See on Amazon →

Safety

Extremely safe. No known toxicity.

Interactions

None significant.

Dosing

Standard Dose: 10 mg Lutein and 2 mg Zeaxanthin daily. Timing: With a meal.

Cost

Affordable. $10-18 per month.

The bottom line

If you care about your vision, these are the two most important supplements you can take. They are the primary defense against the aging of the eye.

References

Age-Related Eye Disease Study 2 Research Group. Lutein + zeaxanthin and omega-3 fatty acids for age-related macular degeneration: the Age-Related Eye Disease Study 2 (AREDS2) randomized clinical trial. JAMA. 2013;309(19):2005-15.
RCTMacular degenerationPubMed →
Chew EY, Clemons TE, SanGiovanni JP, et al. Secondary analyses of the effects of lutein/zeaxanthin on age-related macular degeneration progression: AREDS2 report No. 3. JAMA Ophthalmol. 2014;132(2):142-9.
RCTMacular degenerationPubMed →
Liu R, Wang T, Zhang B, et al. Lutein and zeaxanthin supplementation and association with visual function in age-related macular degeneration. Invest Ophthalmol Vis Sci. 2014;56(1):252-8.
Meta-analysisMacular degenerationPubMed →
Ma L, Dou HL, Wu YQ, et al. Lutein and zeaxanthin intake and the risk of age-related macular degeneration: a systematic review and meta-analysis. Br J Nutr. 2012;107(3):350-9.
Meta-analysisMacular degenerationPubMed →

Sources for this page include published meta-analyses, systematic reviews, and NIH dietary supplement fact sheets. All claims reflect the evidence as of early 2026.

This is not medical advice. Consult your healthcare provider before starting any supplement, especially if you take medications.