Nutr Neurosci. 2017 Feb 15:1-11. doi: 10.1080/1028415X.2017.1286445. [Epub ahead of print]
- 1
- a
Interdisciplinary Neuroscience Program, Biomedical and Health Sciences
Institute , University of Georgia , Athens, GA 30602, USA.
- 2
- b Department of Psychology , University of Georgia , Athens, GA 30602, USA.
Abstract
PURPOSE:
Oxidative
stress and systemic inflammation are the root cause of several
deleterious effects of chronic psychological stress. We hypothesize that
the antioxidant and anti-inflammatory capabilities of the macular
carotenoids (MCs) lutein, zeaxanthin, and meso-zeaxanthin could, via
daily supplementation, provide a dietary means of benefit.
METHODS:
A
total of 59 young healthy subjects participated in a 12-month,
double-blind, placebo-controlled trial to evaluate the effects of MC
supplementation on blood cortisol, psychological stress ratings,
behavioural measures of mood, and symptoms of sub-optimal health.
Subjects were randomly assigned to one of three groups: placebo, 13 mg,
or 27 mg / day total MCs. All parameters were assessed at baseline, 6
months, and 12 months. Serum MCs were determined via HPLC, serum
cortisol via ELISA, and macular pigment optical density (MPOD) via
customized heterochromatic flicker photometry. Behavioural data were
obtained via questionnaire.
RESULTS:
Significant
baseline correlations were found between MPOD and Beck anxiety scores
(r = -0.28; P = 0.032), MPOD and Brief Symptom Inventory scores
(r = 0.27; P = 0.037), and serum cortisol and psychological stress
scores (r = 0.46; P < 0.001). Supplementation for 6 months improved
psychological stress, serum cortisol, and measures of emotional and
physical health (P < 0.05 for all), versus placebo. These outcomes
were either maintained or improved further at 12 months.
CONCLUSIONS:
Supplementation
with the MCs significantly reduces stress, cortisol, and symptoms of
sub-optimal emotional and physical health. Determining the basis for
these effects, whether systemic or a more central (i.e. brain) is a
question that warrants further study.
KEYWORDS:
Anxiety; Cortisol; Depression; Health; Lutein; Macular pigment; Stress; Zeaxanthin
