Serum carotenoids in relation to risk factors for development of atherosclerosis

The results suggested that early atherosclerosis patients had lower serum concentrations of lutein and zeaxanthin than healthy subjects. Serum carotenoids were associated with reduced risk of atherosclerosis. The associations between serum carotenoids and inflammatory cytokines may help to explain the possible protective effects of carotenoids on atherosclerosis.