How Lutein Works In The Body
Lutein is an important compound in the human body, but the body does not manufacture lutein. Eating foods containing lutein or consuming dietary supplements that contain lutein is the only way for your body to get lutein. Lutein is present in the eye, blood serum, skin, cervix, brain and breast. Within the eye, lutein is highly concentrated in the macular region of the retina and is dispersed in lower amounts throughout the retina and lens.
Within the skin, lutein appears to be deposited in the epidermis (outer layers) and dermis (inner layers), providing its antioxidant and blue-light absorption functions throughout the depth of the skin.**
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SAFETY
Lutein is safe when ingested in reasonable quantities. Lutein was evaluated by an independent international organizational body recognized throughout the world for establishing the safety of food additives. This organization is called the Joint (World Health Organization/United Nations) Expert Committee on Food Additives (JECFA). JECFA determined an acceptable daily intake (ADI) level for lutein of up to 2 mg per kg of body weight, which is equivalent to approximately 140 mg of lutein per day for a 154 pound person (70 kg).*
The safety of lutein was also evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA). They conducted their own evaluation of conclusions established by a panel of food safety experts. Click here for the full FDA report.
The Lutein Information Bureau (LIB) is unaware of any studies that have examined interactions between medications and lutein. The LIB is also not aware of any adverse health reports from interactions between lutein and medications. However, the surest way to learn about possible interactions between your medication and any supplements is to consult your doctor before beginning such a regimen. The same is true for lutein.
* JECFA 63rd Meeting 2004