Bioavailability of Lutein from Marigold Flowers (Free vs. Ester Forms): A Randomised Cross-Over Study to Assess Serum Response and Visual Contrast Threshold in Adults

Bioavailability of Lutein from Marigold Flowers (Free vs. Ester Forms): A Randomised Cross-Over Study to Assess Serum Response and Visual Contrast Threshold in Adults

Published in Nutrients. 2024 May 8;16(10):1415. doi: 10.3390/nu16101415.

Lutein (Lut) and zeaxanthin (Zeax) are important for eye health and are found in the blood and retina. They are present in the diet as free forms and esterified with fatty acids. A high intake is linked to lower risk of eye diseases. Marigold flowers are a major source of Lut, mainly as lutein esters. As the bioavailability of Lut from free or ester forms is debated, this study aimed to assess the bioavailability of Lut (free vs. ester) and visual contrast threshold (CT).

Twenty-four healthy adults consumed 6 mg lutein/day from marigold extract (free vs. ester) for two months. Blood samples were taken at various intervals, and serum Lut and Zeax levels were measured. The study found that serum Lut increased significantly after 15 days of supplementation and remained elevated until the end of the study, regardless of the chemical form of lutein supplied. Longer supplementation did not significantly change the concentration achieved but may contribute to an increase in macular pigment and improve visual outcomes.

The findings suggest that daily supplementation with Lut can increase serum Lut levels in adults, reducing the risk of age-related eye disease, irrespective of the chemical form of lutein provided.

PMID:38794653 | DOI:10.3390/nu16101415

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