Zeaxanthin can completely prevent age-related macular degeneration (AMD)
evidence
The Claim
Some people believe that supplementing with zeaxanthin can entirely prevent the onset of age-related macular degeneration, a common eye condition in older adults.
Origin
This myth likely stems from marketing claims and early studies suggesting a strong protective effect of carotenoids in eye health.
What Science Says
Research, including large-scale observational studies and some clinical trials, indicates that zeaxanthin can contribute to eye health and may reduce the risk of progressing AMD. However, evidence from randomized controlled trials (RCTs) is less conclusive about its ability to completely prevent the disease. The Age-Related Eye Disease Study 2 (AREDS2) found that supplements containing zeaxanthin reduced the progression of AMD but did not prevent it entirely.
Verdict
Mostly False
Sources
- PMID:35215476 Lutein and Zeaxanthin and Their Roles in Age-Related Macular Degeneration-Neurodegenerative Disease.
- PMID:35653117 Long-term Outcomes of Adding Lutein/Zeaxanthin and ω-3 Fatty Acids to the AREDS Supplements on Age-Related Macular Degeneration Progression: AREDS2 Report 28.
- PMID:32100327 Risk factors for progression of age-related macular degeneration.