07.01.10
Nutraceutical: Zeaxanthin
Indication: Visual acuity
Source: Association for Research in Vision and Ophthalmology Conference: May 2010, Fort Lauderdale, FL.
Research: The Zeaxanthin and Visual Function Study (ZVF), a double-blind, randomized, placebo-controlled study, followed 60 people with early age-related macular degeneration (AMD) for 12 months. AMD is a progressive eye condition that attacks the macula of the eye, where the sharpest central vision occurs. Although it rarely results in complete blindness, it robs a person suffering from AMD of all but the outermost peripheral vision, leaving only dim images or black holes at the center of vision.
Results: Results from the ZVF study showed that zeaxanthin has unique visual properties separate from lutein and could help people afflicted with AMD by protecting the macula and strengthening it. The 25 patients receiving daily zeaxanthin supplementation not only showed an increased concentration in their macular pigment, but also saw a statistically significant improvement in foveal shape discrimination and their kinetic visual field under low contrast. Most importantly, when asked about specific improvements in their vision, they reported a definitive improvement in their driving performance. This improvement almost reached statistical significance.
