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Lutein supplementation for early-life health and development: current knowledge, challenges, and implications
Yanqi Zhang1, Reece Dawson1, Lingyan Kong1
1Department of Human Nutrition, University of Alabama, Tuscaloosa, AL, USA.
Critical Reviews in Food Science and Nutrition
|May 25, 2024
Summary
Lutein supplementation benefits infant development and eye health. However, low bioavailability may limit its effectiveness, necessitating further research into enhanced delivery methods for pregnant women and infants.
Area of Science:
- Nutrition Science
- Ophthalmology
- Developmental Pediatrics
Background:
- Macular carotenoids (lutein, zeaxanthin, meso-zeaxanthin) are vital dietary antioxidants and eye pigments.
- Lutein is crucial for infant brain development and cognitive function.
- Existing reviews cover lutein's role in early health, but not specifically supplementation outcomes.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the effects of lutein supplementation on maternal and infant outcomes.
- To discuss lutein status, metabolism during pregnancy/lactation, and limitations to its use.
- To explore solutions for enhancing lutein's nutritional intervention potential.
Main Methods:
- Literature review focusing on lutein supplementation studies in pregnant women and infants.
- Analysis of factors affecting lutein status and bioavailability.
- Examination of techniques to improve lutein delivery.
Main Results:
- Lutein intake may be suboptimal in US pregnant and lactating women.
- Preterm and formula-fed infants exhibit poorer lutein status.
- Maternal and infant lutein supplementation improves infant status, but bioavailability is a challenge.
Conclusions:
- Lutein supplementation shows promise for maternal and infant health.
- Low bioavailability of lutein is a significant hurdle for nutritional interventions.
- Further research on enhanced lutein delivery, especially in neonatal models, is warranted.
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