Lutein, Zeaxathin, and Fish Oil Supplementation

Macular degeneration, cognitive decline, and osteoporosis often occur with aging. Lutein, zeaxanthin, and fish oil (LZF) have been shown to have improvements in these areas. This 6-month double-blind randomized controlled trial will study the impact of LZF on cognitive performance, macular pigment optical density (MPOD), and bone health in healthy adults ages 18-45 with a MPOD <.43. We seek to create a precision nutrition model reducing macular degeneration, cognition, and bone health that includes non-invasive screening for high-risk carotenoid deficiencies (MPOD, dietary intake) and individual response to LZF supplementation.

Healthy adults ages 18-45 years with MPOD <.43 will be randomly assigned to take a LZF supplement with 7 mg lutein, 14 mg zeaxanthin, and 245 mg fish oil or a placebo daily for six months. They will have baseline and ending measures of fasting blood draw, MPOD, bone health using a DXA, and visual cognitive performance using Neurotracker software.

Inclusion criteria

• <.43 MPOD, a self-reported best-corrected vision of 20/40 or better in each eye, a BMI range of 18.5-30, and meets the inclusion criteria on the preliminary participant questionnaire.

Exclusion criteria

• allergic to lutein, zeaxanthin, or fish oil, taking supplements with >6 mg lutein and/or >2 mg zeaxanthin for more than two months before study starts, MPOD between >.43, self-reported condition of vertigo, diabetic retinopathy, retinitis pigmentosa, optic neuropathy, retinal vascular occlusions, strabismus, autoimmune disorders related to visual health, currently pregnant or trying to become pregnant, history of concussion, vegan (due to gelatin in the placebo), and/or taking neuroactive medications, such as Ritalin, Adderall, antidepressants, etc.