Changes in macular pigment optical density and serum concentrations of lutein and zeaxanthin, in response to weight loss

Abstract

Abstract Purpose Studies investigating the relationship between macular pigment optical density (MPOD) and percentage body fat have consistently shown an inverse relationship between these variables. This study was designed to investigate changes in MPOD, and serum concentrations of lutein (L) and zeaxanthin (Z), in response to a weight loss. Methods We plan to recruit 100 subjects into this 12 month, multi‐visit, randomized‐controlled study. Adiposity was assessed by dual energy x‐ray absorbtiometry (DEXA), MPOD was measured using customised heterochromatic flicker photometry (cHFP). Dietary and exercise intervention was provided to subjects enrolled into the intervention group of this study. Inclusion criteria were: age 18‐60 years; body mass index > 28; absence of any ocular pathology; lack of a family history of age‐related maculopathy. Results To date, 93 subjects have been recruited. 22% of existing intervention subjects have lost ≥ 7 kgs in weight. A further 27% have lost up to 3.5 kgs in weight, and are maintaining this trend. Of note, preliminary statistical analysis of 11 subjects based on their 6 month data, indicate a positive, but statistically insignificant, relationship between MPOD and percentage body fat lost. Conclusion Preliminary results indicate a positive relationship between MPOD and weight loss. We await completion of this study and analysis of final results to allow us to comment further on this interesting relationship.