Higher Plasma Lutein Associated with Increased Physical Activity
In March 2014, a study reported that lutein supplementation resulted in increased physical activity and reduced sedentary time in older adults. Previous research indicates that lutein crosses the blood-brain barrier and has been shown to impact cognitive performance in older women.
The subjects included 44 older adults with an average body mass index of 25.3 kg/m2 and average age of 68.8 years not meeting Australian physical activity guidelines of 150 minutes per week of moderate to vigorous activity. The researchers randomly assigned the subjects to 21 mg of lutein daily or placebo daily consumed with 250 mL of full-cream milk for four weeks. The investigators encouraged increased physical activity. The investigators assessed physical activity by subject self-report, pedometry and accelerometry (daily activity counts and sedentary time). The subjects completed questionnaires to evaluate exercise self-efficacy.
The researchers found that lutein supplementation increased plasma lutein concentrations compared to the placebo group. The investigators also showed that as absolute and percentage changes in lutein increased, absolute and percentage changes in sedentary time decreased. The investigators found that as the percentage change in lutein increased, the percentage change in average daily activity counts also increased. The researchers did not find any changes in exercise self-efficacy.
The researchers hypothesized that because lutein crosses the blood brain barrier and can influence cognitive function, lutein might alter cognitions related to exercise behavior and thus potentially increase engagement in physical activity.
The researchers concluded, “Lutein increased plasma lutein, which was associated with increased physical activity and reduced sedentary time in older adults. Larger trials should evaluate whether lutein can provide health benefits over the longer term. “
Reference:
Thomson RL, et al. Nutrients. 2014 March 3;6(3):974-84.
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