Lutein and zeaxanthin are plant pigments that accumulate in your eyes and may help slow age-related macular degeneration and cataracts. Most adults get only 1-2 mg daily when they should aim for 10 mg of lutein and 2 mg of zeaxanthin—mainly from dark leafy greens, broccoli, and eggs. These compounds work by fighting free radical damage, but the research here focuses on eye health, not skin benefits.

This was a review article synthesizing existing human studies on how lutein and zeaxanthin are metabolized and absorbed in the body, with a focus on their protective effects against eye disease.

Funding not disclosed in abstract