Effect of macular pigment carotenoids on cognitive functions

Abstract

Lutein and zeaxanthin—xanthophyll carotenoids with antioxidant and anti-inflammatory characteristics—are present in the retina and the brain. High concentrations of these carotenoids have been positively related to cognitive performance. Therefore, this systematic review analyses the relationship between macular pigment density and cognitive functions.

Most relevant databases were scoured for studies on healthy people relating cognitive functions to macular pigment optical density (MPOD). There were no age, sex, or race limitations. PROSPERO registration: CRD42021254833.

Nineteen studies were included, seven randomized controlled trials (RCT) and eleven observational studies. The general aim of the studies was to examine the association between carotenoids (lutein, meso‑zeaxanthin and zeaxanthin) and cognitive function. Most observational studies correlates MPOD levels with cognitive function or brain activity. Besides, RCTs compared the cognitive function and/or brain activity after increasing lutein and zeaxanthin intake though dietary supplementation or avocado consumption. Dietary lutein and zeaxanthin intake increased MPOD in six of the seven clinical trials and significantly improved most of the cognitive functions studied. A wide variety of test and methodologies for measuring cognitive functions were observed. Memory, processing speed, attention and reasoning were the cognitive function significantly related to MPOD levels in adults. Brain activity also was related to MPOD, but the results were inconsistent. Only four of the eleven observational studies were based on young people and all studies showed a significant relationship between MPOD and cognitive functions.

This systematic review showed a direct relationship among cognitive functions, macular pigment and the intake of lutein and zeaxanthin.