Lutein & Zeaxanthin Improve

Lutein and zeaxanthin are crucial for cognition, but we often don’t get enough of them in our diet, since many of us don’t eat enough fruits and vegetables.

A new study shows that when teenagers supplement those two carotenoids, it has a very positive impact on their cognition.

Research shows that supplementing lutein and zeaxanthin improves cognition. A systematic review found that 10 mg of lutein a day leads to improved cognitive function (Nutrients. 2020;12(3):617). Studies have shown that lutein and zeaxanthin improve cognition in children and younger and older adults, but little research has been done on teenagers.

This double-blind study gave either a placebo or 10 mg of lutein and 2 mg of zeaxanthin to 82 teenagers between the ages of 13 and 18 who didn’t eat enough fruits and vegetables and had at least four hours of screen time per day. The study lasted six months.

Compared to placebo, the supplement significantly improved attention and processing speed.

The lutein and zeaxanthin combination was well tolerated, with no significant adverse reactions. This is the first study to show that supplementing lutein and zeaxanthin can enhance cognition in teenagers.

Nutrition Research. June 15, 2026. doi.org/10.1016/j.nutres.2026.06.005.

To learn more, visit Shuswap Health Foods in Piccadilly Mall.