Zeaxanthin & Your Brain

Since your eyes and the head-brain (part of the brain network) are so closely linked, according to science, the nutrients supporting optimal eye health may also improve cognitive function.* Pretty cool, right?

In fact, studies suggest that one of the most potent antioxidants for eye health, Zeaxanthin (zee-uh-zan-thin), may also be linked to three quite important benefits for the brain: better memory, improved focus, and better decision-making.*

The bottom line? Adequate intake of phytonutrients (like Zeaxanthin) may benefit not just your own brain health, but also the development, growth, and overall cognitive health of your loved ones.* 

It's a real win-win. (Actually, it's a triple-win if you count on not having to toss the iPad to keep them away from that potentially damaging 'artificial blue light').

Zeaxanthin: what, why, and where.

Zeaxanthin and Lutein are two unique carotenoids with a particular affinity for the eyes and the brain. But unlike other carotenoids, both Lutein and Zeaxanthin can cross the blood-brain barrier—the protective layer covering your brain—and accumulate in the brain tissue.*

Now, Zeaxanthin may be important not just for your eye health, but also as a potent antioxidant that can help shield brain tissues from oxidative stress. Why is this important? Because oxidative stress may be linked to certain serious health challenges and cognitive decline.*

Let's put it this way: its potent antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties may help maintain the health and function of brain cells.*

And the science backs this up. Ongoing research suggests that those struggling with remembering things often lack this particular nutrient.*

Not to mention that further investigations may actually link increased dietary Zeaxanthin intake with enhanced word recall, visual memory, and learning abilities.*

Parenting in the digital age: no judgments here!

Despite many parents' efforts to limit their young adult's 'screen time,' many young adults often spend more time entertaining themselves with electronic devices (phones, tablets, laptops) than ever before. (No judgment here on parenting decisions. We totally get the need for peace during long car rides and restaurant waits :-)).

Unfortunately, while most of the concern about young adults' screen time focuses on the health downsides of being sedentary, we shouldn't overlook the potential damage that 'artificial blue light' overexposure can do to their eyes and cognitive growth.*

So, you are telling me that an 'eye vitamin' can also be good for the brain?*

Yes! What's really interesting is how emerging research suggests that Zeaxanthin (alongside Lutein) can play functional roles in improving cognitive functioning in both young and older adults.*^1,2,3,4,5

But how does Zeaxanthin naturally work?

When consumed, Zeaxanthin is naturally drawn to the eye and brain regions where it can serve multiple vital functions.* (In other words, Mother Nature has a plan, ensuring our eyes and brains get what they need).

Research showed that young adults with low MOPD levels need more brain effort to accomplish the same tasks (and made notably more mistakes) than those with high MPOD, even when factors like age and socioeconomic status were consistent.*

All these studies collectively hint that the more Lutein and Zeaxanthin young adults intake, the more efficiently their brains may operate in cognitive functions.*

And it's not just the young adults...

Aging often means a dip in cognitive abilities. That's the reality we all have to face. But a proper diet and supplementation with an advanced HCF® nootropic might help counteract this.*⁶

That's because diets rich in Zeaxanthin may boost cognitive health. Plus, Zeaxanthin's benefits typically become more pronounced as we age, with the most impressive results following the onset of cognitive decline.*

Yet, most don't get enough Zeaxanthin from diet alone.*

Zeaxanthin can be a fantastic nutrient needed for everything from memory and focus to overall cognitive performance. The simple fact that your head-brain SELECTIVELY absorbs Zeaxanthin can only substantiate its importance in neural health and function.*

Now, here's some food for your thoughts: most don't get enough Zeaxanthin from diet alone.* 

The optimal Zeaxanthin intake may vary among individuals, but a daily intake of 2 to 4 mg is generally considered most beneficial.*

Just 2 to 4 mg? Well, that doesn't sound like much. You are not wrong. And yet, despite being available in many foods (like kale, spinach, Swiss chard, orange bell peppers, corn, eggs, persimmons, tangerines, or goji berries), many find it challenging to consistently consume the recommended amounts.*

Modern dietary patterns, busy lifestyles, and limited access to fresh produce can make it difficult for most to achieve the optimal Zeaxanthin intake solely through diet alone. For them, HCF® advanced nootropics can offer a convenient alternative.*