The effect of macular carotenoids and omega-3 supplementation on performance in precision sports: the sport nutrition intervention in performance exercise (SNIPE) study

Background Macular carotenoids improve visual performance in healthy individuals, but these benefits have yet to be tested on athletes. The SNIPE study examined how the macular carotenoids [lutein (L), zeaxanthin (Z), meso-zeaxanthin (MZ)] with omega-3 fatty acids (ω3) impact visual functions and sports performance in precision sports. Methods In this double-blind, placebo-controlled trial, 67 athletes and players randomly received either an active supplement containing L, Z, MZ + ω3 (the formulation), or a placebo containing sunflower oil over a 9 month period. Key measurements included blood serum L, Z and MZ concentrations, skin carotenoid score (SCS), visual acuity (VA) and contrast sensitivity (CS), subjective visual function, sleep health (SH), and sport specific performance tests during simulated competitions. Results Results showed that the active group, compared to placebo, exhibited statistically significant improvements in L (88%), Z (107%), MZ (0 to 0.226 μmol/L) blood concentrations, SCS (25%), CS at 6 cpd during dim condition ( p = 0.008, η 2 = 0.141), and SH in archery ( p = 0.023, η 2 = 0.242) and Egame ( p = 0.041, η 2 = 0.237). Sports performance also improved for the active group, including total shooting score of 60 shots ( p = 0.047, η 2 = 0.081) for shooters and archers, and simple motor time ( p = 0.018, η 2 = 0.302) and a suggestive trend toward faster choice reaction time ( p = 0.054, η 2 = 0.213) for Egame players, when compared to the placebo group. Conclusion The study provides novel evidence that supplementing with carotenoids and omega-3 fatty acids enhances visual function and sports performance in precision sport athletes and players. Further research should attempt to identify the exact mechanisms by which these nutrients are enhancing visual function. These findings highlight the opportunity to add these complementary bioactive nutrients of the eye and brain to athletes' diets to help achieve peak performance in sports. Clinical trial registration https://doi.org/10.1186/ISRCTN18761383 , ISRCTN18761383.