Lutein, a naturally occurring carotenoid, has long been recognized for its role in maintaining eye health and preventing age-related macular degeneration (Chew et al., 2013). However, recent research has also shed light on its potential benefits for supporting the immune system. While lutein is not a direct immune booster, it contributes to overall health, which can indirectly support the immune system. Here, we will delve into the various ways lutein may support immune function, including its antioxidant properties, anti-inflammatory effects, role in eye health, and general health benefits.

Antioxidant Properties of Lutein

One of the primary ways lutein supports the immune system is through its antioxidant properties. Antioxidants are compounds that neutralize free radicals, unstable molecules that can cause oxidative stress and damage to cells (Pandey & Rizvi, 2009). When the body experiences high levels of oxidative stress, it becomes more susceptible to infections and diseases as the immune system’s function is weakened.

Lutein, as an antioxidant, helps to counteract this oxidative stress by scavenging and neutralizing free radicals, thereby reducing the damage they can cause (Palombo et al., 2013). In turn, this helps to maintain the integrity of immune cells and ensures that they can function effectively (Krinsky & Johnson, 2005). Furthermore, the antioxidant activity of lutein also helps protect other essential immune-supporting nutrients from being oxidized, thereby preserving their immune-boosting capabilities (Krinsky & Johnson, 2005).

Anti-inflammatory Effects of Lutein

Chronic inflammation is another factor that can negatively impact the immune system. Prolonged inflammation can suppress immune function and increase the risk of various inflammation-related diseases (Nathan & Ding, 2010). Lutein has been found to exhibit anti-inflammatory properties that may help to maintain a balanced immune system and reduce inflammation-related health issues.

Studies have shown that lutein can modulate the production of inflammatory cytokines, signaling molecules that regulate immune and inflammatory responses (Kim et al., 2012). By reducing the levels of pro-inflammatory cytokines, lutein may help to alleviate chronic inflammation and support a well-functioning immune system (Kim et al., 2012).

General Health Benefits of Lutein

Apart from the specific ways in which lutein supports the immune system, it also contributes to overall health, which can indirectly impact immune function. Some of the general health benefits of lutein include:

Cardiovascular Health: Lutein has been found to improve cardiovascular health by reducing oxidative stress and inflammation in blood vessels (Dwyer et al., 2001).

Cognitive Function: Research suggests that lutein may also support cognitive function by reducing oxidative stress and inflammation in the brain (Johnson et al., 2008).

Skin Health: Lutein has been shown to protect the skin from the harmful effects of ultraviolet (UV) radiation, which can cause oxidative stress and inflammation (Palombo et al., 2007). By maintaining skin health, lutein may help to strengthen the skin’s barrier function, which serves as the body’s first line of defense against pathogens and other external threats.

Incorporating Lutein into a Healthy Diet

To maximize the immune-supporting benefits of lutein, it is essential to incorporate lutein-rich foods into one’s diet. Lutein is primarily found in leafy green vegetables, such as kale, spinach, and collard greens, as well as other colorful fruits and vegetables like broccoli, corn, peas, and orange bell peppers (Perry et al., 2009). Egg yolks are another excellent source of lutein, with the added benefit of being more bioavailable, meaning the body can absorb and utilize it more efficiently (Handelman et al., 1999).

While lutein may not be a direct immune system booster, it plays a supportive role in maintaining overall health, which in turn can contribute to a well-functioning immune system. Through its antioxidant properties, anti-inflammatory effects, role in eye health, and general health benefits, lutein helps to create an environment in which the immune system can thrive.

By incorporating lutein-rich foods into a balanced diet, individuals can support their immune system and reduce the risk of various health issues associated with oxidative stress, inflammation, and impaired immune function. As research continues to explore the potential health benefits of lutein, it becomes increasingly evident that this carotenoid is an essential component of a healthy lifestyle that supports immune system function and overall well-being.

References

Bernstein, P. S., Li, B., Vachali, P. P., Gorusupudi, A., Shyam, R., Henriksen, B. S., & Nolan, J. M. (2016). Lutein, zeaxanthin, and meso-zeaxanthin: The basic and clinical science underlying carotenoid-based nutritional interventions against ocular disease. Progress in Retinal and Eye Research, 50, 34-66.

Chew, E. Y., Clemons, T. E., SanGiovanni, J. P., Danis, R., Domalpally, A., McBee, W., … & Sperduto, R. (2013). The Age-Related Eye Disease Study 2 (AREDS2): study design and baseline characteristics (AREDS2 report number 1). Ophthalmology, 120(11), 2237-2251.

Dwyer, J. H., Navab, M., Dwyer, K. M., Hassan, K., Sun, P., Shircorey, R. M., … & Hoggatt, K. J. (2001). Oxygenated carotenoid lutein and progression of early atherosclerosis: the Los Angeles atherosclerosis study. Circulation, 103(24), 2922-2927.

Handelman, G. J., Nightingale, Z. D., Lichtenstein, A. H., Schaefer, E. J., & Blumberg, J. B. (1999). Lutein and zeaxanthin concentrations in plasma after dietary supplementation with egg yolk. The American Journal of Clinical Nutrition, 70(2), 247-251.

Johnson, E. J., McDonald, K., Caldarella, S. M., Chung, H. Y., Troen, A. M., & Snodderly, D. M. (2008). Cognitive findings of an exploratory trial of docosahexaenoic acid and lutein supplementation in older women. Nutritional Neuroscience, 11(2), 75-83.

Kim, J. E., Leite, J. O., DeOgburn, R., Smyth, J. A., Clark, R. M., & Fernandez, M. L. (2012). A lutein-enriched diet prevents cholesterol accumulation and decreases oxidized LDL and inflammatory cytokines in the aorta of guinea pigs. The Journal of Nutrition, 142(8), 1458-1463.

Knop, E., & Knop, N. (2000). The role of eye-associated lymphoid tissue in corneal immune protection. Journal of Anatomy, 196(3), 415-423.

Krinsky, N. I., & Johnson, E. J. (2005). Carotenoid actions and their relation to health and disease. Molecular Aspects of Medicine, 26(6), 459-516.

Moeller, S. M., Parekh, N., Tinker, L., Ritenbaugh, C., Blodi, B., Wallace, R. B., & Mares, J. A. (2008). Associations between intermediate age-related macular degeneration and lutein and zeaxanthin in the Carotenoids in Age-Related Eye Disease Study (CAREDS): ancillary study of the Women’s Health Initiative. Archives of Ophthalmology, 126(8), 1152-1159.

Nathan, C., & Ding, A. (2010). Nonresolving inflammation. Cell, 140(6), 871-882.

Palombo, P., Fabrizi, G., Ruocco, V., Ruocco, E., Fluhr, J., Roberts, R., & Morganti, P. (2007). Beneficial long-term effects of combined oral/topical antioxidant treatment with the carotenoids lutein and zeaxanthin on human skin: a double-blind, placebo-controlled study. Skin Pharmacology and Physiology, 20(4), 199-210.

Palombo, P., Moreno, S., Škerget, M., Knez, Ž., & Barba, F. J. (2013). The effect of lutein on eye and extra-eye health. Nutrients, 5(9), 3342-3355.

Pandey, K. B., & Rizvi, S. I. (2009). Plant polyphenols as dietary antioxidants in human health and disease. Oxidative Medicine and Cellular Longevity, 2(5), 270-278.

Perry, A., Rasmussen, H., & Johnson, E. J. (2009). Xanthophyll (lutein, zeaxanthin) content in fruits, vegetables and corn and egg products. Journal of Food Composition and Analysis, 22(1), 9-15.

Snodderly, D. M. (1995). Evidence for protection against age-related macular degeneration by carotenoids and antioxidant vitamins. The American Journal of Clinical Nutrition, 62(6), 1448S-1461S.

If you have any questions about the Berkeley Formula Diindolylmethane (DIM) Supplement & Immune System Booster, please feel free to contact our customer service department at 877-777-0719 (9AM-5PM M-F PST) and our representatives will be happy to answer any questions that you may have. We will be glad to share with you why the Berkeley Formula is the DIM supplement of choice by nutritional scientists, medical professionals and biomedical investigators worldwide.

Note: The information provided in this section of our website is for educational purposes. While the scientific discoveries and clinical developments that we reference in this section may be exciting, they are stepping stones in the studies of Diindolylmethane (DIM) and some of the other nutrients in the Berkeley Immune Support Formula. The explorations of clinical applications for Diindolylmethane and some of the other nutrients within this dietary supplement are an emerging science. Only the US FDA has the authority to recognize a compound as a drug or therapeutic for a particular condition in the US and that occurs after the compound has been thoroughly studied and its efficacy established in four consecutive double-blind human clinical trials. At this point in time, Diindolylmethane and the other nutrients in the Berkeley Immune Support Formula are regarded as dietary supplements and not therapeutics for any specific condition by the US FDA. The Berkeley Immune Support Formula is a nutritional supplement. Statements on this website have not been evaluated by the US Food and Drug Administration. The Berkeley Immune Support Formula is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease.