Lutein Guide

Lutein is an antioxidant carotenoid concentrated in the eye and used to support healthy vision. Learn how it supports eye health, where it comes from, and what to consider when choosing a supplement.¹

✅ Reviewed by Jamieson's Science Team

Quick Answers

What is lutein?

Lutein is a carotenoid with antioxidant properties that is concentrated in the macular region of the eye.¹,²

What does lutein support?

Health Canada recognizes lutein for supporting eye health, healthy vision, and macular pigment optical density.¹

Why are lutein and zeaxanthin often paired?

Both are carotenoids used in eye-health formulas and help provide antioxidant protection within the eye.¹

What foods contain lutein?

Lutein occurs naturally in foods, particularly dark green vegetables and other colourful fruits and vegetables.²

What is lutein?

Lutein is a carotenoid, a type of naturally occurring plant pigment with antioxidant properties. It’s found in foods and is concentrated in the macular region of the eye.¹,² 

Supplemental lutein is commonly derived from marigold flowers and may be provided as lutein or lutein esters.¹ 

How does lutein support eye health?

Lutein acts as an antioxidant in the eye and helps improve macular pigment optical density, which helps filter damaging blue light.¹ 

Health Canada also recognizes lutein for maintaining eyesight in conditions associated with sunlight damage and for helping reduce the risk of developing cataracts.¹ 

Which health goals can lutein support?

Eye Health

Lutein supports healthy vision and helps maintain optimal eye health.¹

Healthy Aging

Lutein may help maintain eyesight in conditions associated with aging and sunlight damage, including cataracts and age-related macular degeneration.¹

Antioxidant Support

Lutein provides antioxidant protection that helps reduce oxidative damage caused by free radicals.¹

How can lutein fit into your routine?

Lutein can be part of an everyday routine focused on maintaining healthy vision over time. 

  • Eat colourful produce: Dark leafy greens and other colourful vegetables can provide lutein.² 
  • Think long term: Eye health becomes increasingly important as you age. 
  • Protect your eyes: Sunglasses and regular eye exams also support lifelong vision health. 
  • For screen-heavy days: Lutein helps support the eye’s natural protection against blue light and oxidative damage.¹ 

*It is important to consult your trusted healthcare practitioner before adding any new natural health supplement to your routine. 

What should you look for in a lutein supplement?

Start with what you need, then choose a product that fits your life.

  • Check the amount: Lutein supplements come in different strengths. 
  • Look for zeaxanthin: The two carotenoids are commonly paired in eye-health formulas.¹ 
  • Check the form: Products may contain lutein or lutein esters. 
  • Review added ingredients: Some formulas also include bilberry or other antioxidants. 
  • Take as directed: Some lutein products are taken with a meal containing oil or fat. 
  • Look for an NPN: Choose a licensed natural health product with an eight-digit NPN. 
  • Look for quality: Jamieson products are backed by the Jamieson 360 Quality Promise. 

For more than 100 years, Jamieson has combined scientific expertise with rigorous quality testing. Every product is backed by the Jamieson 360 Quality Promise. 

*It is important to consult your trusted healthcare practitioner before adding any new natural health supplement to your routine. 

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FAQs
What does lutein do for the eyes?

Lutein acts as an antioxidant and helps improve macular pigment optical density, which supports healthy vision and helps filter damaging blue light.¹

What is the macula?

The macula is the central part of the retina involved in detailed central vision. Lutein is found in high concentrations in this area of the eye.²

Why are lutein and zeaxanthin taken together?

Both are carotenoids found in the eye and are commonly combined in supplements to provide antioxidant support for eye health.¹

Sources

1. Health Canada. Marigold Extract and Isolates (Lutein and Zeaxanthin) Monograph. Natural and Non-prescription Health Products Directorate. Updated August 26, 2022.[Text Wrapping Break]https://webprod.hc-sc.gc.ca/nhpid-bdipsn/dbImages/mono_marigold-extract-and-isolates-lutein-and-zeaxanthin_english.pdf 

2. Health Canada. Novel Food Information — Juice with Added FloraGLO® Crystalline Lutein.[Text Wrapping Break]https://www.canada.ca/en/health-canada/services/food-nutrition/genetically-modified-foods-other-novel-foods/approved-products/juice-added-floraglo-crystalline-lutein.html 

3. Health Canada. Licensed Natural Health Products Database — Lutein with Zeaxanthin, NPN 80122357.[Text Wrapping Break]https://health-products.canada.ca/lnhpd-bdpsnh/info?licence=80122357