You can find lutein and zeaxanthin in dark green leafy vegetables, corn, egg yolks, and, in particular, fruits. It is widespread to find them in dietary supplements aimed at taking care of the eyes. Since more users are interested in these compounds for better vision and brain power, concerns arise about their wider effects on the body. Can Lutein And Zeaxanthin Raise Blood Pressure?
What are Lutein and Zeaxanthin?
Lutein and zeaxanthin are subclasses of carotenoids known as xanthophylls, so our bodies need to get them from the foods we eat or add them with supplements. They mainly act to absorb blue light and eliminate free radicals, especially in the eye's macula and retina. Even so, their antioxidant properties play a role throughout the body, leading many to study their wider influences, for example, how they affect the cardiovascular system.
Impact on Blood Pressure: Current Scientific Consensus
There isn't much proof at the moment that taking lutein or zeaxanthin pushes blood pressure up. Alternatively, certain studies indicate that they could slightly improve vascular function because of their antioxidant and anti-inflammatory qualities. They seem to aid in helping the endothelium and making arteries flexible, which are key for keeping the heart healthy in the long term.
This 2020 review in Nutrients points out that carotenoids in the diet play a role in vascular health, saying that greater amounts of lutein in the blood are related to fewer risks of hypertension. Still, this correlation does not show that one thing causes the other and should be considered with care. The use of lutein and zeaxanthin up to healthy recommended levels generally does not have a strong effect on healthy people's blood pressure.
Considerations
It is important for clients making dietary supplements, eye health blends, or functional beverages to know about the systemic safety of lutein and zeaxanthin. Most people can use these ingredients safely, and no important changes in blood pressure have been noticed within the usual dose ranges you get in stores (6–20 mg/day lutein and 2–10 mg/day zeaxanthin).
It is important for manufacturers to check that the carotenoids they sell are pure, not harmful, and given in the right doses. How a compound is delivered (vitamins and supplements with phospholipids or oils) and the pairs of ingredients mixed in may affect the body's response to it. If you wish to appeal to consumers who focus on their health, you should ensure that both your quality and compliance documentation are strong.
Potential Synergistic Effects with Other Nutrients
It is not uncommon to find lutein and zeaxanthin mixed with omega-3 fatty acids, zinc, and vitamins A, C, and E when choosing products for eye care during aging. Generally, these combinations are safe, but buyers should acknowledge that some parts, like big amounts of vitamin E, may slightly affect blood clotting or blood pressure for sensitive cases. The combination of components in a medicine is important to make sure it is effective and causes no unnecessary physical effects.
Clinical Use and Population Groups
Most clinical research centers on older adults, together with those who might suffer from age-related visual difficulties. Adding lutein and zeaxanthin to their diets has helped these groups, and it does not appear to raise their blood pressure. It is clear that there have not been major cardiovascular events reported for people with high blood pressure when taking these drugs.
If you're pregnant or use blood pressure drugs, you should always consult your doctor before taking high doses of the supplement. Lutein and zeaxanthin seem to be fine to use by adults if consumed within a good nutritional plan.
Conclusion
At present, no research has shown that lutein and zeaxanthin increase blood pressure in people who are healthy people. Actually, they could offer a small boost to your heart because of their antioxidant and anti-inflammatory benefits. Carotenoids are considered safe and useful for manufacturers who make products for wellness and eye health. Because people are paying more attention to their health, the need for both clean-label and scientifically backed carotenoids is expected to keep increasing.
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FAQ
Q1: Can lutein supplements cause high blood pressure?
So far, studies have not found a connection between lutein supplements and raised blood pressure. Most people find it to be safe as long as it is taken as guided by a doctor.
Q2: Are lutein and zeaxanthin safe for people with hypertension?
Yes, usually, hypertension patients can use them, but those on medication should talk to their doctor.
Q3: What is the recommended daily dose of lutein and zeaxanthin?
The amount of lutein used ranges from 6 to 20 mg per day, and the amount of zeaxanthin is 2 to 10 mg daily, depending on your needs and the product.
Q4: Do lutein and zeaxanthin affect heart rate or vascular function?
Because of their antioxidants, they may provide some mild heart health benefits, but they have not been proven to have a big effect on blood pressure or heart rate.
References
1. Ma, L., Lin, X. M. (2020). Effects of lutein and zeaxanthin on aspects of eye health. Nutrients, 12(5), 1-18.
2. Bhosale, P., Bernstein, P. S. (2016). The role of diet and supplements in age-related macular degeneration. Current Opinion in Ophthalmology, 27(3), 220–225.
3. Johnson, E. J. (2014). Role of lutein and zeaxanthin in visual and cognitive function throughout the lifespan. Nutrition Reviews, 72(9), 605–612.
4. Huang, Y. M., Dou, H. L., et al. (2015). Serum levels of lutein and zeaxanthin are inversely associated with blood pressure. British Journal of Nutrition, 113(10), 1391–1396.
