NutriStack
Astaxanthin and Lutein, timing-sensitive.
Lutein and astaxanthin are both lipophilic carotenoids that compete for the same intestinal absorption pathways, so large doses taken together can modestly reduce uptake of each.
One pair, every claim cited. The two substances, the type, the mechanism, the recommendation, and the primary literature.
Same shape as the other 1,729 pairs in the public database.
From the interaction database
What the row says.
Every entry follows the same shape: what is happening, the mechanism, the recommendation, and the primary literature.
At a glance
- Substances
- Astaxanthin and Lutein
- Pair type
- Timing Sensitive
- Evidence (highest tier)
- Moderate
- Source citations
- 2 sources
- Stack Score effect
- −5 to your Stack Score (per scored timing-sensitive row).
- Scope
- Supplement × Supplement
- Last verified
- May 30, 2026
Timing Sensitive · Moderate evidence
Timing Sensitive
What is happening. Lutein and astaxanthin are both lipophilic carotenoids that compete for the same intestinal absorption pathways, so large doses taken together can modestly reduce uptake of each.
Mechanism. Carotenoids share intestinal uptake mechanisms, including incorporation into mixed micelles and transport via the scavenger receptor SR-BI, so co-ingestion of competing carotenoids can lower the absorption of each.
Recommendation. Both support eye and oxidative health. If taking higher doses, consider separating them by a couple of hours or taking them with different fat-containing meals to limit absorption competition.
Minimum separation. 2 hours
Sources (2)
Stack Score
How this pair moves the number.
Effect on the composite score
If both Astaxanthin and Lutein are in the same stack, this pair applies −5 to your Stack Score (per scored timing-sensitive row).
The full algorithm, the clamping rules, and four worked stacks are documented at /methodology/stack-score.
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