Which of the following is a source of lutein and zeaxanthin?

• A. Egg yolk
• B. Kale
• C. Spinach
• D. Broccoli

Answer: (A)

Lutein and zeaxanthin are fat-soluble carotenoids that accumulate in the retina to help protect against blue light and oxidative damage. Because they dissolve in fat, their absorption from the diet improves when eaten with fat. Egg yolk is a rich source of these pigments and comes with fat in the same food, which enhances the body’s ability to take up both lutein and zeaxanthin efficiently. While leafy greens like kale and spinach contain substantial amounts of these carotenoids, their absorption is partly dependent on the presence of fat in a meal; eggs provide a highly bioavailable combination of carotenoids and fat, making them a particularly effective source. Broccoli has some carotenoids but generally far less than egg yolk.