What is astaxanthin? Astaxanthin is a carotenoid responsible for the reddish pigmentation of lobsters, salmon, crabs, krill, shrimps, and other seafood. Carotenoids are known to be potent antioxidants, and astaxanthin is dubbed as the most potent of all carotenoids. Although seafood is the best astaxanthin sources, it is actually produced by microalgae and phytoplanktons in the sea. According to experts, the green algae (Haematococcus pulvaris) from Hawaii’s Kona Coast are the largest producer of this powerful antioxidant. Astaxanthin is manufactured as nutritional supplements and as fish food. However, it its most noted for its beneficial effects to human health.
Antioxidants are substances that exhibit free-radical scavenging activities. With this mechanism, they are able to protect the cells from damage and nourish them for optimum cellular health. Healthy cells lead to healthy tissues, healthy organs, healthy systems, and a healthy body. People who don’t consume enough of seafood are may not gain from the benefits of astaxanthin. Astaxanthin benefits are wide range, affecting the cardiovascular system, bones, eyes, nervous system, and immune system.
Astaxanthin Benefits
- Astaxanthin possess strong anti-inflammatory properties which are beneficial for muscle and bone pains, and joint inflammations. Natural astaxanthin supplements may help relieve the symptoms of arthritis.
- This carotenoid antioxidant supports healthy eyes together with visual acuity even during old age. Astaxanthin does this by protecting the eyes from oxidative stress.
- Natural astaxanthin can cross the blood-brain barrier and directly combats oxidative damage. It is this action that Astaxanthin benefits people with Alzheimer’s disease, Parkinson’s disease, and other degenerative diseases of the nervous system.
- According studies, both natural astaxanthin and astaxanthin supplements can protect the skin from the damaging UV rays from the sun. It acts as a natural sunscreen that prevents sunburn after extreme exposure to the sun.
- Astaxanthin benefits athletes by improving endurance, increasing strength, and supporting faster healing from physical stress like muscle joints, soreness, and pain.
- The antioxidant action of astaxanthin is involved in the prevention and treatment of gastric ulcers. According to clinical researches conducted in different countries worldwide, gastric ulcers are also due to low antioxidant levels in gastric tissues. Astaxanthin works by reducing inflammation and preventing bacterial overgrowth in the stomach.
- Astaxanthin supplements produce powerful anti-aging effects. By protecting important structures inside the cell, astaxanthin prevents cell damage leading to tissue ageing. Generally, it protects the body from the harmful effects of ageing to maintain youthful vitality, functions, and looks.
- Like other antioxidants, astaxanthin participates in ensuring healthy liver functions. Astaxanthin does this by inducing production of liver enzymes needed for the elimination of toxins.
Astaxanthin Side Effects
There has been no reported Astaxanthin side effect so far, making it generally safe for use. However, like any other drugs or supplements, astaxanthin supplements must be taken as directed.
