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Speaker says carotenoids benefit the entire body
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LAS VEGAS – The carotenoids lutein and zeaxanthin have been shown in studies to not only reduce the risk of progression to wet age-related macular degeneration, but also to improve cognitive function, heart health and hydration, according to a presenter here at Vision Expo West.
“There are lots of compelling reasons to think about carotenoids, and it doesn’t have to end with the eyes,” Jeffrey D. Gerson, OD, FAAO, told attendees. “Lutein and zeaxanthin make you smart. Xanthophylls are good for brain health and cognition.”
Studies have shown that more lutein and zeaxanthin equals better cognitive function, and more AMD and worse visual acuity equals worse cognitive function, Gerson said. Studies have also shown that intake of more green vegetables is associated with less cognitive decline.
According to the results of the Age-Related Eye Disease Study 2, lutein and zeaxanthin reduce the risk of converting from dry to wet AMD by 25% in the average American, he added.
“Blue light is far more damaging to the retina when it comes to AMD,” Gerson said. “You can improve your macular pigment optical density so the blue light doesn’t reach the rods and cones.”
Carotenoids are the best way to naturally protect against blue light damage to the macula, he said, but specially treated spectacle lenses can also help.
“The visible light spectrum has blue light in it, but it also comes from computer screens and digital devices,” Gerson said.
Macular pigment optical density (MPOD) can be tested subjectively with the QuantifEye from ZeaVision or the MacuScope, distributed by Marco Ophthalmic.
“High MPOD levels enhance visual acuity, glare tolerance, glare recovery, contrast sensitivity, chromatic aberration and photophobia,” Gerson said.
He said light sensitivity may also provide a clue to MPOD.
“I guarantee that if patients are light sensitive, it’s very likely that they have low macular pigment,” Gerson said. “It’s a good surrogate test if you don’t have an instrument to measure it.
“MPOD is measurable and modifiable,” he continued. “Modify with diet, supplements and lifestyle changes. MPOD is a piece of the puzzle.”
Disclosure: Gerson is a member of the ZeaVision advisory board.