Consumption of Lutein and Zeaxanthin and Its Relation to the Level of Macular Pigment Optical Density in Thai Subjects

Abstract

The aim of the study is to determine dietary lutein and zeaxanthin (L/Z) consumption and to evaluate its association with macular pigment optical density (MPOD) in Thai subjects. Methods. This study was a cross-sectional study. A total of 120 ophthalmologically healthy subjects aged between 40 and 72 years were recruited from Bangkok and the vicinity area. Demographic data were collected using a questionnaire, while a semiquantitative food frequency questionnaire assessed the L/Z intake. MPOD was determined using the reflectometry method (VISUCAM 500®, Carl Zeiss Meditec AG). Pearson’s correlation coefficient analyzed the relationship between L/Z consumption and MPOD. Results. The mean age of the participants was 50.7 ± 7.5 years. The mean consumption of L/Z was 3.03 ± 2.65 mg per day. The mean MPOD was 0.102 ± 0.023 density units. Consumption of foods rich in L/Z, including ivy gourd (r = 0.217, p<0.05), Chinese flowering cabbage (r = 0.194, p<0.05), balsam pear (r = 0.193, p<0.05), lettuce (r = 0.182, p<0.05), sweet corn (r = 0.181, p<0.05), and pumpkin (r = 0.181, p<0.05), was positively associated with the mean optical density (mean MPOD). Consumption of green onion (r = 0.212, p<0.05) was positively associated with the sum of optical densities (MPOD volume). In contrast, chilli pepper consumption showed a negative association with mean MPOD (r = −0.220, p<0.05) and amaranth showed a negative association with MPOD volume (r = −0.283, p<0.05). No association was found between total L/Z consumption and MPOD. Conclusion. L/Z consumption is low among Thais living in Bangkok and the vicinity area, which may not be sufficient to ensure eye health, and total L/Z consumption is not associated with MPOD.