Macular Pigment Optical Density (MPOD) is a measurement of Lutein+Zeaxanthin levels in the macula. MPOD is measured by the value of Optical Density Units, with values ranging from 0 to 1. A meta-analysis in 2020 has shown that an increase in MPOD value is directly proportional to an increase in visual functions in the form of: Contrast sensitivity, photostress recovery and glare disability. However, the question arises, what is the ideal dose of Lutein and Zeaxanthin supplementation to increase MPOD?
Dr. Wilson and his team from the USA conducted a meta-analysis published in the journal Advances in Nutrition in 2021, which evaluated the effectiveness of various doses of Lutein+Zeaxanthin supplementation for improving MPOD. There were 38 clinical trials involving adults with healthy eyes. The duration of clinical trials ranged from 3 months to 12 months.
The results of this study showed that, Lutein + Zeaxanthin supplementation <5 mg/day did not significantly increase the mean MPOD. Lutein+Zeaxanthin supplementation 5 to <20 mg/day was effective in increasing the mean MPOD significantly by 0.04 Units (95% CI: 0.02 to 0.07). Lutein+Zeaxanthin supplementation >20 mg/day was effective in increasing the mean MPOD significantly by 0.11 Units (95% CI: 0.06 to 0.16).
Lutein and Zeaxanthin supplementation of 5 mg or more per day significantly increased Macular Pigment Optical Density (MPOD).
Image: Illustration (source: user18526052 - freepik.com)
Reference:
1. Johnson EJ, Avendano EE, Mohn ES, Raman G. The association betweenmacular pigment optical density and visual function outcomes: a systematic review and meta-analysis. Eye . 2020.
2. Wilson LM, Tharmarajah S, Jia Y, Semba RD, Schaumber DA, Robinson KA. The Effect of Lutein/Zeaxanthin Intake on Human Macular Pigment Optical Density: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis. Adv Nutr 2021;12:2244–2254.
