What Is the Eye Vitamin Called? Lutein and Zeaxanthin Explained

October 27, 2025 •

4 min read

The human retina selectively concentrates only a few of the hundreds of carotenoids found in nature, prominently lutein and zeaxanthin. This specialized function helps answer the question, what is the eye vitamin called? as these two are considered the primary nutrients for eye health and protection. They are critical for filtering damaging light and protecting against oxidative stress in the delicate macular region.

Quick Summary

Lutein and zeaxanthin are the carotenoids most often referred to as 'eye vitamins.' Found in the retina, they act as antioxidants that protect the eye from blue light and oxidative damage.

Key Points

Lutein and Zeaxanthin: These are the specific carotenoids often called 'eye vitamins,' as they are concentrated in the macula to protect against blue light and oxidative damage.
Macular Pigment: Lutein and zeaxanthin form the yellow macular pigment, which acts as a natural sunblock for the retina, filtering high-energy blue light.
AREDS2 Formula: This supplement formula, containing lutein and zeaxanthin, is recommended by the National Eye Institute for individuals with intermediate-to-advanced macular degeneration to slow its progression.
Beyond Lutein & Zeaxanthin: A balanced diet with vitamins A, C, E, zinc, and omega-3 fatty acids is crucial for comprehensive eye health.
Dietary Intake is Key: A diverse diet rich in leafy greens, colorful vegetables, eggs, and fish provides these essential nutrients naturally.
Deficiency Risks: Severe deficiencies, particularly in Vitamin A, can lead to night blindness and other serious eye conditions.

The Primary Eye Vitamins: Lutein and Zeaxanthin

While many vitamins are important for overall vision, the compounds most specifically associated with eye health are the carotenoids lutein and zeaxanthin. These powerful antioxidants are naturally concentrated in the macula, the small, central part of the retina responsible for sharp, central vision and seeing fine details. Together, they form the macular pigment, giving the macula its yellowish color (macula lutea). This dense pigment serves two main protective functions within the eye: it filters out high-energy blue light and it neutralizes free radicals that cause oxidative damage to retinal cells. The body cannot produce these carotenoids, so they must be obtained through diet or supplements.

The Role of Lutein and Zeaxanthin in Eye Health

Blue Light Filtration: The macular pigment acts as a natural sunblock for the macula, absorbing up to 90% of incident blue light. Given the increasing exposure to digital screens, this function is more important than ever. By filtering this high-energy light, lutein and zeaxanthin help prevent potential phototoxic damage to the light-sensitive photoreceptor cells.
Antioxidant Protection: The retina has a high metabolic rate, producing a large number of free radicals that can damage cellular proteins and lipids over time. As potent antioxidants, lutein and zeaxanthin scavenge these free radicals, protecting the retinal cells from oxidative stress and reducing the risk of age-related eye diseases like macular degeneration and cataracts. Studies show a strong link between higher dietary intake and blood levels of these carotenoids and a lower incidence of these conditions.

Other Essential Vitamins for Optimal Vision

Beyond lutein and zeaxanthin, several other vitamins and minerals are vital for maintaining eye health and supporting optimal vision.

Vitamin A: Essential for night vision, vitamin A is a component of the protein rhodopsin, which allows the eye to see in low-light conditions. A deficiency can lead to night blindness and dryness of the cornea. Beta-carotene, found in many orange and yellow fruits and vegetables, is converted into vitamin A by the body.
Vitamin C: A powerful antioxidant, vitamin C is highly concentrated in the fluid of the eye and helps protect against UV light damage and oxidative stress. It is also crucial for producing collagen, a protein that provides structure to the cornea and sclera. Increased intake is linked to a lower risk of cataracts.
Vitamin E: This fat-soluble vitamin acts as a powerful antioxidant, protecting eye cells from free radical damage. Studies suggest a high intake of vitamin E may reduce the risk of developing cataracts.
Zinc: This mineral helps bring vitamin A from the liver to the retina to produce melanin, a protective pigment. Zinc supplementation is a key component of the AREDS formula, shown to slow the progression of advanced AMD.
Omega-3 Fatty Acids (EPA and DHA): High concentrations are found in the retina. Omega-3s support retinal function, visual development, and may help alleviate dry eye symptoms by promoting tear production.

Comparison of AREDS and AREDS2 Formulas

The Age-Related Eye Disease Studies (AREDS), sponsored by the National Eye Institute, have provided a standard for nutritional supplements aimed at slowing the progression of age-related macular degeneration (AMD).


Ingredient	Original AREDS Formula	AREDS2 Formula
Vitamin C	500 mg	500 mg
Vitamin E	400 IU	400 IU
Beta-Carotene	15 mg	Replaced with Lutein & Zeaxanthin
Zinc (as Zinc Oxide)	80 mg	80 mg or 25 mg
Copper (as Cupric Oxide)	2 mg	2 mg
Lutein	Not included	10 mg
Zeaxanthin	Not included	2 mg

The original AREDS formula used beta-carotene, which carries a risk of lung cancer in smokers. In the AREDS2 trial, beta-carotene was replaced with lutein and zeaxanthin, offering similar or better benefits for AMD progression without the same risk for smokers.

Dietary Sources for Eye-Healthy Nutrients

Consuming a balanced diet rich in these nutrients is the most natural way to support eye health. For some, particularly those with low dietary intake, supplements may be beneficial.

Excellent sources of eye-healthy nutrients include:

Dark Leafy Greens: Kale, spinach, and collard greens are particularly rich in lutein and zeaxanthin.
Fish: Salmon, tuna, and sardines are excellent sources of omega-3 fatty acids, especially DHA and EPA.
Eggs: Egg yolks are a good source of lutein, zeaxanthin, and zinc.
Citrus Fruits and Berries: Oranges, strawberries, and other berries provide ample vitamin C.
Nuts and Seeds: Almonds, sunflower seeds, and walnuts are high in vitamin E.
Carrots and Sweet Potatoes: Rich in beta-carotene, the precursor to Vitamin A.
Seafood: Oysters, crab, and lobster are among the best sources of zinc.

Understanding the Risks of Eye Vitamin Deficiencies

Nutritional deficiencies can increase the risk of certain eye conditions. A severe vitamin A deficiency, for example, is the leading cause of preventable blindness in children globally and can lead to night blindness and xerophthalmia (extreme eye dryness). Similarly, low levels of lutein and zeaxanthin can leave the macula vulnerable to oxidative damage and may increase the risk of AMD. While deficiencies are rare in developed countries, inadequate intake, especially in aging populations, can still impact eye health.

Conclusion

While no single vitamin is solely responsible for eye health, the term “eye vitamin” most accurately refers to lutein and zeaxanthin, the critical carotenoids concentrated in the macula. These powerful antioxidants protect the retina from damaging blue light and oxidative stress, thereby reducing the risk of age-related diseases like AMD and cataracts. However, optimal vision health is supported by a comprehensive nutritional approach that includes other essential nutrients like vitamins A, C, and E, zinc, and omega-3 fatty acids. The AREDS2 formula highlights the importance of this combination for those with intermediate to advanced AMD. The best strategy for most people is to maintain a balanced diet rich in a variety of fruits, vegetables, and other healthy foods to ensure an adequate intake of these vital nutrients. Consult a healthcare provider to determine if supplementation is necessary.

For further details on the Age-Related Eye Disease Studies, visit the National Eye Institute website.(https://www.nei.nih.gov/learn-about-eye-health/eye-conditions-and-diseases/age-related-macular-degeneration/nutritional-supplements-age-related-macular-degeneration)

Frequently Asked Questions

Eye vitamins and supplements, such as lutein and zeaxanthin, are not a cure for poor vision but can help protect against age-related eye diseases like macular degeneration and cataracts. The best way to maintain healthy vision is through a balanced diet and regular eye exams.

Lutein and zeaxanthin are found in high concentrations in dark green leafy vegetables such as kale, spinach, and collard greens. Other good sources include eggs, corn, and orange bell peppers.

For most people, a healthy, balanced diet is the best way to get the necessary nutrients for eye health. However, for those with insufficient dietary intake or certain eye conditions like advanced AMD, supplementation may be recommended by a healthcare provider.

The original AREDS formula contained beta-carotene, which was later removed and replaced by lutein and zeaxanthin in the AREDS2 formula due to the risk of lung cancer in smokers associated with beta-carotene.

Yes, Vitamin A is crucial for good vision, particularly in low light conditions, and for maintaining the health of the cornea. Severe deficiency can lead to night blindness.

Lutein and zeaxanthin are concentrated in the macula of the retina, where they absorb high-energy blue light. This filtering action helps protect the delicate photoreceptor cells from damage.

Supplements are typically recommended for individuals diagnosed with intermediate or late-stage age-related macular degeneration (AMD) to slow the disease's progression. It is best to consult an eye care provider to determine if supplements are right for you.