How Long Should You Continue Taking Lutein for Eye Health?

Lutein has been taken for 6 months?

Hello, Nutritionist: I read some articles online stating that lutein needs to be taken continuously for 6 months to be effective.
I have been taking it for 6 months now.
Should I continue to take lutein daily, or is it sufficient to take it every other day? Do you have any recommendations? Thank you!!!!!

Niming, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2020/06/09

Dr. Cai Xiuwen reply Nutrition

Hello! As age increases, the risk of macular degeneration also rises.
Lutein is associated with slowing down the neurodegeneration of retinal pigment photoreceptors.
Some patients may have a family history that results in lower retinal pigment levels in the macula, making them more susceptible to degeneration.
However, studies have shown that a high intake of lutein does not necessarily lead to increased lutein concentrations in the blood, which may be related to individual physiology.
For high doses of lutein, it is advisable to seek individual assessment and professional recommendations from an ophthalmologist.
For the general population, it is beneficial to choose natural foods rich in lutein, such as kale, spinach, broccoli, green peas, grapes, and oranges, and to consume them appropriately with fatty foods.
For example, vegetables can be dressed with plant oils or cooked at low temperatures, while fruits can be consumed with nuts to enhance absorption.
Wishing you health and safety.
This message is from Dietitian Tsai Hsiu-Wen at Nantou Hospital, Ministry of Health and Welfare.

Reply Date: 2020/06/09

More Info

When it comes to maintaining eye health, particularly through the use of supplements like lutein, it's essential to understand both the role of lutein and the recommended practices for its consumption. Lutein is a carotenoid, a type of antioxidant found in high concentrations in the retina, particularly in the macula, which is responsible for central vision. It helps protect the eyes from harmful high-energy light waves like ultraviolet rays and blue light, which can contribute to age-related macular degeneration (AMD) and other vision problems.

Duration and Dosage of Lutein
The question of how long to continue taking lutein is a common one. While some sources suggest that it may take around six months to see significant benefits from lutein supplementation, this does not mean that you should stop taking it after this period. The ongoing intake of lutein can be beneficial for maintaining eye health, especially if you are at risk for conditions like AMD or if you spend a lot of time in front of screens, which can lead to digital eye strain.

The typical recommended dosage of lutein varies, but many studies suggest a daily intake of 10 to 20 mg is effective for eye health. If you have been taking lutein for six months and have not experienced any adverse effects, continuing with a daily dose is generally advisable. However, some individuals may consider reducing the frequency to every other day after the initial six months, depending on their dietary intake of lutein-rich foods, such as leafy greens (like kale and spinach), corn, and egg yolks.

Importance of a Balanced Diet
While supplements can help, they should not replace a balanced diet. Consuming a variety of fruits and vegetables can provide not only lutein but also other essential nutrients that contribute to eye health. For example, vitamins A, C, and E, as well as omega-3 fatty acids, are crucial for maintaining good vision. Foods rich in these nutrients include:
- Fish: Fatty fish like salmon and mackerel are high in omega-3 fatty acids, which are beneficial for retinal health.

- Nuts and Seeds: Almonds and flaxseeds are good sources of vitamin E and omega-3s.

- Colorful Fruits and Vegetables: Carrots, sweet potatoes, and bell peppers are high in beta-carotene, which the body converts to vitamin A.

Monitoring Eye Health
It's also important to monitor your eye health regularly, especially if you have a history of eye problems or if you are experiencing symptoms like eye strain or fatigue. Regular eye exams can help detect any potential issues early on. If you are considering changing your lutein intake or have specific concerns about your eye health, it is always best to consult with a healthcare professional or a registered dietitian who can provide personalized advice based on your individual health needs.

Conclusion
In summary, continuing to take lutein daily is generally recommended for ongoing eye health benefits, especially if you are at risk for vision problems. However, it’s also crucial to focus on a well-rounded diet rich in various nutrients that support eye health. If you have any concerns or specific health conditions, consulting with a healthcare provider is always the best course of action.

Similar Q&A

Benefits of Lutein for Retinal Health and Eye Care Tips

1. Is lutein beneficial for the retina and vitreous body? 2. I have undergone surgery for a retinal detachment in my right eye. How often should I have my left eye examined? 3. How should I take care of my eyes? If I avoid looking at my phone and television, can it help preve...

Dr. Wang Zhishun reply Ophthalmology
1. Lutein is beneficial for the retina. 2. Generally, eye examinations should be conducted every six months. 3. Proper eye care is essential. Reducing screen time on phones and televisions may help prevent an increase in floaters.

Essential Eye Care Supplements: Lutein and B Vitamins Explained

Hello, doctor. Due to the need to read a lot of materials and living abroad, I haven't been very attentive to my diet, and my eyes often feel sore and fatigued. Recently, I've been considering purchasing some nutritional supplements to support my eye health. I found onl...

Dr. Hu Yusheng reply Ophthalmology
Hello: Lutein is a fat-soluble substance, and it is best taken after meals. B vitamins are water-soluble substances and should be taken with water for optimal absorption. All dietary supplements should only be used to supplement deficiencies or poor absorption. It is recommended ...

Should You Take 30mg of Lutein for High Myopia?

Bilateral congenital hereditary high myopia is present, with both eyes approaching a prescription of -2000 diopters. The vitreous body has begun to degenerate, and there is a family history of diabetes and hypertension. The patient is considering supplementing with lutein but is ...

Dr. Gao Pilin reply Ophthalmology
Hello, Mianli: Excessive intake of lutein is not beneficial; it is recommended to supplement with a daily dose of 6 to 10 mg of lutein, which is sufficient. The daily intake should not exceed 30 mg, and maintaining a long-term and stable dosage is key.

Potential Interactions Between Beta-Carotene and Lutein for Eye Health

Hello Dr. Hu, I would like to ask you the following questions: 1. I have been taking a lutein supplement containing beta-carotene (50 mg of beta-carotene daily) for one to two years. Recently, I read an article by a pharmacist online stating that "there is a contraindicati...

Dr. Hu Yusheng reply Ophthalmology
Hello: High doses of beta-carotene are not suitable for smokers, as they may increase the risk of lung cancer. I have no research on your other questions (these are food products, not medications). Wishing you peace and health.