Zeaxanthin
Zeaxanthin is a yellow-orange plant pigment in the carotenoid family, occurring alongside lutein in foods such as corn and egg yolk.
What it is studied for
The strongest rated effects first. Bars show the size of the effect, the letter grades the evidence, and each rating lists the studies behind it.
What is zeaxanthin?
Zeaxanthin is a yellow-orange plant pigment in the carotenoid family, occurring alongside lutein in foods such as corn and egg yolk. Supplements use synthetic material or extracts from marigold petals. 1
Key studies
The most recent publications linked to Zeaxanthin's ratings.
Why people take it
SuppCo community snapshot, 2026-09-28. Reasons for use are not evidence that it works.
Questions people ask
Can zeaxanthin prevent AMD?
AREDS/AREDS2 did not prevent AMD onset; their established role concerns slowing progression in selected patients. 2
Is zeaxanthin the same as lutein?
They are distinct carotenoids that naturally occur together and are often studied together. 1 3
Does it work for skin?
A trial found antioxidant effects with lutein/zeaxanthin combinations, but did not establish the effect of zeaxanthin alone. 4
Related nutrients
Carotenoids
LuteinSources
- AREDS/AREDS2 Clinical Trials National Eye Institute