The naturally occurring lutein is a common carotenoid in the leaves of green vegetables, the egg yolk, and marigold flowers, which is utilized in most dietary supplements as an eye health and antioxidant booster. Although lutein is largely considered safe to most people when taken in sufficient doses, there exist certain groups of the population who need to be cautious, or completely avoid supplementation of such a product.
Which Group Of People Should Not Take Lutein?
Individuals With Known Allergies to Marigold or Related Plants
The commercial supplement lutein is sometimes extracted from Tagetes erecta (marigold flower). Allergic reactions may also occur because people prone to allergy to marigold or daisies, ragweed, or chrysanthemums may have allergies and skin irritation, itching, or gastrointestinal discomfort. It is less common that this would happen, but when it does, it will be necessary to emphasize the relevance of botanical sources' transparency in formulation.
People Taking Certain Medications
There are a few people who take medications that interfere with fat absorption, people who take bile acid sequestrants or orlistat, or mineral oil may absorb lower levels of lutein. These interactions have the ability to reduce the bioavailability and effectiveness of lutein since it is a fat-soluble compound. Also, there is a possibility that lutein would compete with other carotenoids, such as beta-carotene, with regard to absorption of these carotenoids in the gut. Individuals who take special medications, therefore, are advised to seek the advice of medical personnel before taking lutein-containing supplements.
Pregnant or Breastfeeding Women (In High Doses)
Although dietary exposure to lutein in food does not pose any threats to the unborn child or to the lactating mother, high lutein supplements are not advocated except upon prescription. Clinical evidence of the practical consequences of the concentrated lutein supplementation in these groups is scant. To prevent needless exposure during the developmental stages, when prenatal or maternal supplements are being manufactured, producers should remember about moderate doses and labeling.
Children Under 12 (Without Professional Guidance)
Lutein supplements are usually not designed to be used by young children unless directed by a healthcare provider. In spite of the fact that lutein is observed in breast milk and could have a positive influence on eye development, the extended safety of a supplementary lutein in children has not been studied. The manufacturers of products intended to sell pediatric formulas need to be cautious and maintain the dosage within the safety data.
Individuals With Excessive Supplement Intake
There is also a benign condition that may be caused by high-dose supplementation and that is referred to as carotenodermia, in which the skin manifests a yellow-orange color. This visual effect might be of concern to the consumer and lead to product perception, although they are not a harmful influence. It is recommended that manufacturers also formulate within clinically validated dosage ranges, i.e., about 620 mg per day in adults, so as to prevent unnecessary side effects as well as retain consumer confidence.
Those With Specific Metabolic Disorders
In rare circumstances, people with disorders in carotenoid metabolism or fat digestion, as in some types of fat malabsorption syndrome, may fail to metabolize lutein. Supplementation in these cases may result in no benefits and even hamper the intake of other nutrients. Issues regarding the nutritional status may be required as the assessments of healthcare providers before recommending the use of lutein supplements.
Conclusion
Although the benefits brought about by lutein to human eye health are highly recognized and regarded, it cannot be taken in by everyone. Caution on the use of lutein should be exercised by groups of individuals with allergies to plants, individuals taking particular drugs, pregnant and breastfeeding mothers at high supplement doses, young children, and individuals with some metabolic or digestive disorders. To manufacturers who may be interested in producing safe, effective, and labelled products that fit into consumer needs, knowledge of these limitations is important and valuable.
Do you have any other ideas? Please let us know through this website or directly at donna@kingsci.com, and we will provide you with more support and free samples.
FAQ
Is lutein safe for long-term use?
Yes, lutein is safe most of the time to use long-term, provided it is taken in its recommended doses. Nonetheless, it must be used by a healthcare expert, in case one tries to use it on a regular basis over a prolonged period of time.
Can lutein cause side effects?
Most individuals do not have much intolerance to lutein. Occasionally, in severe doses, the yellowing of the skin (carotenodermia) may occur and is harmless and reversible.
Should children take lutein supplements?
Healthy children who diet have no reason to take lutein supplements, unless medical advice is indicated.
Is it safe to take lutein while pregnant or breastfeeding?
Consumption of diets is safe, but close attention on administering high doses of lutein supplements during the period of pregnancy and lactation, based on medical prescriptions.
Does lutein interact with medications?
Yes, lately, some drugs that influence the absorption of fats can deprive lutein of its bioavailability. One should talk to a healthcare expert before mixing lutein with other drugs.
References
1. Li, B., Zhang, H., Ma, L., & Zhang, Y. (2022). Safety and bioavailability of lutein: A review of clinical trials and regulatory status. Nutrients, 14(1), 103. https://doi.org/10.3390/nu14010103
2. Kelly, S. P., & Gillbro, J. M. (2021). Carotenoids as functional ingredients in skincare: Safety and efficacy. International Journal of Cosmetic Science, 43(3), 215–225.
3. Tanvetyanon, T., & Bepler, G. (2020). Nutritional supplements with eye health benefits: Evidence-based review. Journal of Dietary Supplements, 17(6), 602–615.
4. EFSA Panel on Dietetic Products, Nutrition and Allergies (NDA). (2021). Scientific Opinion on the safety of lutein from Tagetes erecta as a food supplement. EFSA Journal, 19(4), e06543.
