The Effects of a Carotenoid Intervention on Cognitive Function

The Effects of a Lutein + Zeaxanthin Intervention on Cognitive Function and Neural Efficiency

Past research suggests that retinal lutein levels are related to cognitive function as measured via behavioral tests. The goal of the present study is to investigate the relationship between lutein and cognitive function in a wider variety of the population (young, healthy adults and older adults), using a wider variety of methods (behavioral testing and neuroimaging).

Past research suggests that retinal lutein levels are related to cognitive function as measured via behavioral tests. The goal of the present study is to investigate the relationship between lutein and cognitive function in a wider variety of the population (young, healthy adults and older adults), using a wider variety of methods (behavioral testing and neuroimaging).

Inclusion Criteria:

• visual acuity correctable to 20:40 or better, Snellen notation
• able to swallow a dietary supplement
• free of dementia, characterized by a score of less than 1.5 on the Clinical Dementia Rating Scale

Exclusion Criteria:

• GI conditions that interfere with lipid absorption
• presence of or past diagnosis of age-related macular degeneration
• visual acuity poorer than 20:40, Snellen notation
• has taken lutein, omega-3 fatty acid or fish oil supplements within the last 6 months
• presence of dementia, characterized by a score of 1.5 or greater on the Clinical Dementia Rating Scale