Two nutrients long associated with eye health, lutein and zeaxanthin, are also good for the brain, say researchers at the University of Georgia. Known as the macular carotenoids, they have been proven to enhance vision and to reduce the risk of vision loss in people with age-related macular degeneration (AMD).
Researchers found that lutein and zeaxanthin improved psychological stress levels and reduced levels of cortisol — the stress-related hormone — in the blood.
Fifty-nine healthy, young adults aged 18 to 25 participated in the randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled study. At the beginning, all had blood cortisol levels measured as well as psychological stress ratings, behavioral measures of mood, and symptoms of sub-optimal health.
Volunteers were then given a daily supplement of 10/2 or 20/4 milligrams of lutein/zeaxanthin, or a placebo. They were tested again at 6 and 12 months.
The results show that supplementation of both doses for 6 months significantly improved psychological stress, serum cortisol, and measures of emotional and physical health compared to placebo.
“This compelling research demonstrates the expanded benefits of supplementing with lutein and zeaxanthin isomers to help address the huge public health concern surrounding elevated stress and cortisol levels,” said Abhijit Bhattacharya, President of OmniActive Health Technologies Ltd., producers of Lutemax 2020, the supplement used in the study.
Both lutein and zeaxanthin are carotenoids, which are the pigments that give some foods such as carrots their bright color. They function as antioxidants and numerous studies have found they may lower the risk of many diseases, including heart disease and cancer.
Lutein and zeaxanthin are found in dark green, leafy vegetables and yellow and orange produce. One of the best food sources of both lutein and zeaxanthin is cooked spinach.
Professional Scope of Practice *
The information herein on "Eye Nutrients Improve Stress Levels" is not intended to replace a one-on-one relationship with a qualified health care professional or licensed physician and is not medical advice. We encourage you to make healthcare decisions based on your research and partnership with a qualified healthcare professional.
Blog Information & Scope Discussions
Our information scope is limited to Chiropractic, musculoskeletal, physical medicines, wellness, contributing etiological viscerosomatic disturbances within clinical presentations, associated somatovisceral reflex clinical dynamics, subluxation complexes, sensitive health issues, and/or functional medicine articles, topics, and discussions.
We provide and present clinical collaboration with specialists from various disciplines. Each specialist is governed by their professional scope of practice and their jurisdiction of licensure. We use functional health & wellness protocols to treat and support care for the injuries or disorders of the musculoskeletal system.
Our videos, posts, topics, subjects, and insights cover clinical matters, issues, and topics that relate to and directly or indirectly support our clinical scope of practice.*
Our office has reasonably attempted to provide supportive citations and has identified the relevant research study or studies supporting our posts. We provide copies of supporting research studies available to regulatory boards and the public upon request.
We understand that we cover matters that require an additional explanation of how it may assist in a particular care plan or treatment protocol; therefore, to further discuss the subject matter above, please feel free to ask Dr. Alex Jimenez, DC, or contact us at 915-850-0900.
We are here to help you and your family.
Blessings
Dr. Alex Jimenez DC, MSACP, RN*, CCST, IFMCP*, CIFM*, ATN*
email: coach@elpasofunctionalmedicine.com
Licensed as a Doctor of Chiropractic (DC) in Texas & New Mexico*
Texas DC License # TX5807, New Mexico DC License # NM-DC2182
Licensed as a Registered Nurse (RN*) in Florida
Florida License RN License # RN9617241 (Control No. 3558029)
Compact Status: Multi-State License: Authorized to Practice in 40 States*
Dr. Alex Jimenez DC, MSACP, RN* CIFM*, IFMCP*, ATN*, CCST
My Digital Business Card
Getting a good night’s sleep can be difficult for individuals suffering from arthritis. Can finding… Read More
Can individuals dealing with scoliosis incorporate various exercises and stretches to improve their posture and… Read More
Could learning to apply healthy sleep hygiene habits help improve sleep and overall health for… Read More
Can incorporating natural probiotic foods help improve many people's gut health and restore functionality to… Read More
Experiencing a whiplash injury can be disorienting and painful. Can recognizing the signs of more… Read More
Individuals dealing with fibromyalgia can find natural remedies to reduce the pain-like symptoms and provide… Read More