Lutein plus zeaxanthin and the AREDS study:
Currently, the Age-Related Eye Disease Study 2 (AREDS2) results on lutein plus zeaxanthin were pending. This study is evaluating lutein plus zeaxanthin with or without polyunsaturated fatty acid in reduction of advanced AMD. This study will also look at the results of removing beta carotene and reducing zinc used in the previous AREDS study. Beta-carotene may increase risk of late AMD and is also currently being investigated. (5)
Lowering progression of age related macular degeneration (AMD):
Diets including higher DHA, EPA, and a lower glycemic index showed a lower rate of advanced AMD progression in patients which are part of the AREDS. DHA (docosahexaenoic acid) and EPA (eicosapentaenoic acid) are the major constituents of omega-3 fatty acids in fish oil and algae oil. (6)
