Lutein is a carotenoid, an antioxidant that pigments foods, found in egg yolks and green, leafy vegetables. The antioxidant qualities in lutein protect the body against free radicals. According to New York University Langone Medical Center, lutein may aid in preventing or retarding the progression of cataracts and age-related macular degeneration. While lutein provides numerous health benefits, a few disadvantages are associated with lutein consumption.
Lung Cancer
According to New York University Langone Medical Center, long-term lutein supplementation may cause harm. A 2009 study published in the “American Journal of Epidemiology” found a heightened risk of lung cancer associated with individuals taking lutein supplements. Some antioxidants are taken to prevent cancer. However, researchers of the aforementioned study do not recommend taking lutein supplements for cancer prevention, especially if you smoke. Further research is needed to confirm these results, as findings were based on self-reported data over a 10-year period.
Fat
According to Linus Pauling Institute, carotenoids are only absorbed intestinally when released from a mixture of bile salts and lipids. Thus, you must consume fats, like vegetable oil or nuts, with your food for carotenoid absorption to take place. However, fat substitutes, such as sucrose polyester, will not help in carotenoid absorption and can significantly decrease the concentration of carotenoids in your blood. Consuming a snack with only 2 grams of fat substitute per day can reduce your total serum carotenoids by 15 percent, according to Linus Pauling Institute.
Other Carotenoids
Lutein may compete metabolically with other carotenoids, such as beta-carotene or lycopene, for absorption. According to the Linus Pauling Institute, consuming high quantities of beta-carotene, found in carrots, sweet potatoes and pumpkin, at the same time as lutein may cause less absorption from each carotenoid ingested. However, long-term studies reveal high quantities of beta-carotene do not negatively affect carotenoid serum levels.
Vitamin C
Vitamin C, an antioxidant, is found in a variety of fruits, such as oranges, kiwi, strawberries and pineapple. Due to the antioxidant properties in this vitamin, lutein and vitamin C may be taken together to rid the body of free radicals. However, according to the University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences, vitamin C may increase the absorption of lutein. While there are no known toxicity side effects of lutein, avoid increased absorption of lutein to prevent any unknown side effects, unless otherwise instructed by your physician.
References
- New York University Langone Medical Center; Lutein; August 2011
- “American Journal of Epidemiology”; Long-term Use of β-Carotene, Retinol, Lycopene and Lutein Supplements and Lung Cancer Risk: Results from the VITamins and Lifestyle (VITAL) Study; Jessie Satia, et al.; 2009
- Linus Pauling Institute at Oregon State University; Carotenoids; Jane Higdon; June 2009
- University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences: Vitamin C
- University of Wisconsin-Extension; Nutrition for Family Living; Susan Nitzke, et al.; February 2004
- Johns Hopkins University; Lutein Supplementation May Improve Vision; May 2000
