Zeaxanthin (standalone)

Tier 2 — promising · Eye health · Macular pigment · AMD

One of two oxygenated carotenoids concentrated in the central macula (the other is lutein), where it absorbs blue-light photons before they damage photoreceptor outer segments. The AREDS2 trial established 2 mg zeaxanthin plus 10 mg lutein daily as the optimal combination for slowing progression to advanced AMD in at-risk patients — roughly a 25% reduction in progression over five years. Modest effects on visual performance metrics and digital eye strain have also been reported. Extremely safe; excess is excreted without toxicity and minor harmless skin yellowing can occur at very high…

Dose: 2–4 mg/day standalone or as part of the AREDS2 combination (2 mg zeaxanthin + 10 mg lutein)