Relationship between serum xanthophyll levels and the consumption of cigarettes, alcohol or foods in healthy inhabitants of Japan.

The relationship between serum concentrations of beta-cryptoxanthin and zeaxanthin and the consumption of cigarettes and alcohol or the intake frequencies of foods was investigated in 775 Japanese inhabitants. Serum concentrations of beta-cryptoxanthin and beta-carotene in healthy Japanese aged 40-70 years were higher in females than in males. Serum beta-cryptoxanthin levels were inversely associated with the consumption of cigarettes and alcohol, as were the serum beta-carotene levels. Serum zeaxanthin (including lutein) levels were associated with cigarette consumption. The levels of serum beta-cryptoxanthin were positively correlated with the intake frequency of some fruits, and those of zeaxanthin, with the intake frequency of green vegetables, milk and eggs. These xanthophylls may play a role with beta-carotene in smoking-related cancer prevention.