Effect of Mediterranean diet and blue light exposition on macular pigment optical density values in a Spanish childhood population

Background: Macular pigment in retina is formed by lutein and zeaxanthin. These carotenoids must be ingested. Fruit, vegetables, and eggs are rich in lutein and zeaxanthin. In adults, there are many factors that increase macular pigment values, although not enough studies have been performed in children.

Objective: The main aim of this study was to analyze macular pigment in children considering healthy habits and exposure to LEDs screens.

Methods: A cross-sectional, observational study was conducted, recruiting 27 children aged 7-13 years. Healthy habits, demographic data and exposure to LEDs were analyzed using a questionnaire. To study adherence to the Mediterranean diet, the validated KIDMED questionnaire was used. Macular pigment optical density was measured using Heterochromatic Flicker Photometry, and weight and height were also recorded and expressed by body mass index.

Results: The mean MPOD value was 0.45 ± 0.14. BMI percentile was studied in the children, with most of them presenting normal weight (55.55 %). Regarding the KIDMED questionnaire, ingesting a fruit or fruit juice every day increases macular pigment optical density (0.47 ± 0.13 vs 0.24 ± 0.07, p = 0.034). No correlation was found for the KIDMED questionnaire score, BMI or age with MPOD value.

Conclusion: Lutein and zeaxanthin intake, as well as healthy habits, increase MPOD value. However, no relation was found for several of the factors evaluated with MPOD value.