Morristown, NJ— Researchers at the University of Georgia have found that the macular carotenoids, lutein and zeaxanthin isomers, are now not only associated with eye health, but with reducing serum cortisol and improving psychological stress levels as well. “Supplementation with macular carotenoids reduces psychological stress, serum cortisol, and sub-optimal symptoms of physical and emotional health in young adults,”is the LAMA II study which was published in the journal Nutritional Neuroscience, 2017 (Stringham, et al.). The LAMA II study (Lutein, Vision and Mental Acuity II) is also a confirmation of the cognitive and benefits of lutein and zeaxanthin isomers found the LAMA I.

“This compelling research demonstrates the expanded benefits of supplementing with lutein and zeaxanthin isomers to help address the huge public health concern surrounding elevated stress and cortisol levels,” said Abhijit Bhattacharya, President of OmniActive Health Technologies Ltd., producers of Lutemax 2020, in a press release. “The results of LAMA II serve as a strong foundation on which new macular carotenoids science can be built.”

In the LAMA II study there were 59 adults ranging in age from 18 to 25 who were placed in the double-blind, randomized, placebo-controlled study. The study measured behavioral measures of mood, blood cortisol, psychological stress ratings and symptoms of sub-optimal health while either on a placebo, 10/2 mg or 20/4 mg of the lutein and zeaxanthin isomers found in Lutemax 2020 at baseline, 6 months, and after 12 months of daily supplementation. After 6 months of supplementation both doses showed substantial improvement in emotional and physical health, improved psychological stress ratings and serum cortisol.

The LAMA II research shows that lutein and zeaxanthin isomers function as possible antioxidants and locate in specific areas of both the eyes and the brain. The findings of this study are very promising in combating chronic stress issues that lead to diseases of the heart and emotional well being.