Article
Seasonal variation and influence of dietary habits on macular pigment density
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Published: | September 22, 2004 |
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Outline
Text
Objective
Macular pigment (MP) is believed to have a protective role in the development and progression of age-related maculopathy (ARM). We have presented a modified confocal scanning laser ophthalmoscope (HRA, Heidelberg Engineering, Heidelberg, Germany) for assessment of macular pigment density (MPD). In this study we investigated variation of MPD over a period of one year in healthy young subjects and whether alternate dietary habits have influence on the MPD.
Methods
Macular pigment density maps were calculated from autofluorescence images recorded with a modified HRA at 488nm and 514nm and a single band pass filter with a short wavelength cut off at 530nm. MPD was quantified from MPD maps within 2 degrees around the center of the fovea. Healthy subjects were followed in the course of one year and underwent MP density measurements every two months. Using a questionnaire we assessed the lutein(L)/zeaxanthin(Z)-intake and categorized the probands into 2 groups (consumers with low and high L/Z-intake).
Results
In this study we included 30 healthy subjects aged 19 - 34 years (mean: 23±3 years). The mean MPD was on the first date of examination (DOE): 0,215±0,056 D.U., on the second DOE: 0,235±0,051 D.U., on the third DOE: 0,218±0,055 D.U., on the fourth DOE: 0,228±,057 D.U., on the fifth DOE: 0,225±0,053 D.U. and on the last DOE: 0,203±0,050 D.U.. The statistical analysis (Lowess-Guggen) showed no significant differences of MPD within one year. No significant differences of MPD were found between consumers with low and high L/Z-intake (Mann-Whitney-U-Test).
Conclusions
The study revealed no statistically significant differences of MPD in young subjects concerning calendary time or diet. MPD does not seem to alter due to season or dietary habits. Further longitudinal studies are necessary to show whether high dosed L/Z-supplementation can influence MPD in young subjects.
supprted by DFG Wo478/11