Lutein

Also known as: lutein esters

Confidence

research strength

ASolid confidence73114 studies referenced

Latest evidence update: 2025-12-01

Strongest in Sample size (95). Held back by Recency (13).

Study quality (37%)

Study design (21%)

Risk of bias (16%)

Solid mix of RCTs with some methodological gaps.

Replication (26%)

Cross-study replication (21%)

Precision (5%)

Confirmed across many independent studies with significant findings.

Sample size (16%)

Tens of thousands of participants pooled across studies.

Consistency (11%)

Studies agree on direction of effect.

Recency (10%)

Mostly pre-2020 research; updates may be needed.

Effect by outcome

how big the change is

Cognitive performance Vision & eye health

Common dosage

10-20mg daily

Description

Carotenoid that concentrates in the macula and lens, filtering high-energy blue light and quenching oxidative stress. Strong evidence from AREDS2 for reducing progression of age-related macular degeneration.

Safety & interactions

Take with fat. Found naturally in leafy greens and egg yolks.

Check interactions with other supplements→

What the research shows

Some links on this page may earn us a commission at no extra cost to you. This never influences our evidence grades or recommendations. Full disclosure

Order Lutein

Recommended: 10-20mg daily

Protocols featuring Lutein

Screen Eye Strain ReliefBBuilding confidence

Digital Wellbeing ProtocolBBuilding confidence

Macular Health ProtocolASolid confidence

Questions about Lutein

Who has been studied for Lutein?

Who should avoid Lutein based on the safety notes?

What dose did studies use for Lutein, and when was it taken?

Referenced studies (114)

ProtocolEngine provides general health information based on published research. This is not medical advice. Consult a healthcare professional before starting any supplement or health protocol.

↑

Improves visual function in age-related macular degeneration by building protective pigment in the eye and enhancing visual acuity and contrast sensitivity

strong evidence5 studies:Investigative ophthalmology & visual science (2014)Nutrients (2022)Ophthalmic research (2014)

↑

Reduces risk of age-related cataract and may slow progression of advanced macular degeneration

moderate evidence2 studies:The American journal of clinical nutrition (2019)The Cochrane database of systematic reviews (2017)

↑

May improve blood cholesterol levels by raising beneficial HDL cholesterol in older adults

moderate evidence1 study:Prostaglandins & other lipid mediators (2023)

↑

Higher dietary intake is associated with reduced risk of type 2 diabetes and bladder cancer

moderate evidence2 studies:Advances in nutrition (Bethesda, Md.) (2021)Advances in nutrition (Bethesda, Md.) (2020)

↑

Protects the retina in people with diabetes by maintaining blood vessel health and reducing oxidative damage