Astaxanthin
Additional names: Microalgae, Microalgue, Micro-Algue, Dihydroxy-3,3′ dioxo-4,4′ bêta-carotène, Astaxanthine, Astaxantina, Ovoester 3,3′-dihydroxy-4,4′-diketo-beta-carotene, three different forms of astaxanthin: 3S,3’S, 3R,3’R, and 3R,3’S.
The group of substances known as carotenoids includes the natural pigment astaxanthin. It is in charge of giving some marine species, including salmon, shrimp, lobster, and krill, their scarlet hue. Microalgae, fungus, and some bacteria produce astaxanthin, which builds up at higher levels of the food chain as other animals eat these microorganisms.
When compared to other carotenoids, such as beta-carotene or lycopene, astaxanthin is thought to have antioxidant capabilities that are many times stronger. Free radicals, which are very reactive chemicals that can harm cells and contribute to a number of diseases, generate oxidative stress that can damage cells. Antioxidants help shield cells from this damage.
According to research, astaxanthin may provide a number of health advantages. According to certain research, it can promote cardiovascular health, improve eye health, reduce inflammation, boost immune function, and protect against neurodegenerative illnesses. Astaxanthin has also been investigated for its possible use in enhancing athletic performance and minimizing muscle injury.
Both as a dietary supplement and a natural food coloring, astaxanthin is employed in a variety of goods. When taken in accordance with the authorized dosage, it is usually regarded as safe for the majority of users, while large doses could result in benign reddish skin discoloration.
As with any dietary supplement, it is crucial to speak with a doctor before beginning astaxanthin supplementation, especially if you have any underlying medical issues or are taking any medications. This will help you make sure the supplement is safe and suitable for your particular needs.
Uses for Astaxanthin: Astaxanthin is used in a wide range of products, including:
1. Support for antioxidants: Astaxanthin, a powerful antioxidant, aids in the body’s ability to fight off free radicals and lessen oxidative stress. It can promote general health and well-being by defending cells against oxidative stress-related cell damage.
2. Skin Health: Astaxanthin has been linked to possible advantages for skin health. It promotes a more youthful appearance, lessens the visibility of wrinkles and fine lines, enhances skin elasticity, and protects the skin from UV radiation-induced damage. It is frequently used into nutritional supplements as well as topical skincare products.
3. Eye Health: The role of astaxanthin in promoting eye health has been investigated. It accumulates in the retina and lens of the eye after crossing the blood-retinal barrier, where it functions as an antioxidant and aids in preventing age-related macular degeneration (AMD), cataracts, and other eye disorders.
4. Exercise Performance and Recovery: Athletes and those who exercise may benefit from astaxanthin. It has been demonstrated to increase muscular performance, prevent muscle damage, and lessen pain and inflammation in the muscles after strenuous exercise. These effects could be a result of its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant capabilities.
5. Cardiovascular Health: Research has shown that astaxanthin is beneficial for cardiovascular health. It can aid in lowering blood pressure, oxidative stress reduction, blood flow improvement, LDL cholesterol reduction, and HDL cholesterol augmentation. These advantages could reduce the risk of heart disease.
6. Cognitive Function: Some research indicates that astaxanthin may boost cognitive function and brain health. It has been demonstrated to penetrate the blood-brain barrier and have neuroprotective properties. Memory and cognitive function may be enhanced, oxidative damage may be prevented, and inflammation in the brain may be decreased thanks to astaxanthin.
7. immunological Support: Astaxanthin has the ability to modulate the immunological system, which may aid to improve the immune response. By lowering inflammation, enhancing antioxidant defenses, and encouraging immune cell activity, it can help maintain a healthy immune system.
Although astaxanthin has shown promise in a number of areas, more study is necessary to completely comprehend its mechanisms of action and therapeutic potential. As usual, it’s wise to speak with a medical expert before beginning a new supplement program.
When taken in accordance with authorized dosages, astaxanthin is generally regarded as safe for the majority of users. It is a naturally occurring substance found in dietary sources whose safety profile has undergone significant research. However, there may be possible negative effects or things to think about, just as with any dietary supplement.
The following are some possible astaxanthin adverse effects and warnings:
1. Allergic Reactions: Astaxanthin may cause allergies in certain people. It is advised to use caution and seek medical advice before using astaxanthin supplements if you have known allergies to seafood or other carotenoids.
2. Stomach Ailments: In certain instances, astaxanthin may result in moderate gastrointestinal ailments like nausea, diarrhea, or stomach cramps. Typically, these adverse effects are transient and disappear when the body gets used to the supplement.
3. Skin Discoloration: At large doses, astaxanthin may result in painless, rosy-colored skin discoloration. Once the supplementation is stopped, this effect will subside and is reversible.
4. Interaction with pharmaceuticals: Astaxanthin may interact with some pharmaceuticals, including anticoagulants (blood thinners) and antiplatelet medications. Before beginning an astaxanthin supplementation regimen, it is crucial to check with your doctor to make sure there aren’t any potential drug interactions.
5. During pregnancy and breastfeeding, there isn’t much information available regarding the safety of using an astaxanthin supplement. It is advisable to stay away from astaxanthin supplements during these times unless directed to do so by a healthcare provider as a precaution.
As with any dietary supplement, it’s always advisable to abide by the dosage recommendations and seek medical advice, especially if you have any underlying health concerns or are taking medication. They can offer you individualized advice and assist in determining whether astaxanthin is appropriate for your particular circumstance.
Although astaxanthin is usually thought to be safe for most people, there are certain warnings and things to think about:
1. Allergies: It’s crucial to use caution when taking astaxanthin if you have known allergies to seafood or other carotenoids. Despite the rarity of allergies to astaxanthin itself, people with existing allergies may be more vulnerable to negative effects. Itching, swelling, redness, or trouble breathing are all indications of an allergic response. If you have any of these symptoms, stop using the product right once and get medical help.
2. Medication Interaction: Blood thinners (anticoagulants) and antiplatelet medicines, among others, may interact with astaxanthin. If you take any medications, it’s crucial to check with your doctor to be sure there aren’t any potential interactions.
3. During pregnancy and breastfeeding, there isn’t much information available regarding the safety of taking astaxanthin supplements. It is typically advised to stay away from astaxanthin supplements during these times unless specifically instructed to do so by a healthcare provider.
4. Children: Little research has been done on the efficacy and safety of astaxanthin supplementation in young people. Therefore, before offering astaxanthin to youngsters, it is advisable to speak with a pediatrician.
5. Health Conditions: It’s crucial to discuss the use of astaxanthin with your healthcare professional if you have any underlying health issues or are receiving treatment. They can offer you tailored guidance depending on your unique health circumstances.
6. Recommended Dosage: Adhere to the dosage recommendations listed on the product label or those given by your healthcare provider. Excessive astaxanthin consumption may not offer any additional benefits and may raise the possibility of negative side effects.
Always keep in mind that while astaxanthin has demonstrated potential advantages, individual reactions may differ. It is best to speak with a healthcare professional who can evaluate your unique situation and offer pertinent advice.
Dosage recommendations for astaxanthin might change depending on a number of variables, including the particular medical condition being treated, age, general health, and individual tolerance. Astaxanthin does not have a standardized recommended daily allowance (RDA), therefore doses may range between different sources and goods. It’s crucial to adhere to the directions listed on the product label or seek the opinion of a healthcare provider for specific recommendations.
Accordingly, the normal daily doses for astaxanthin supplements fall between 4 and 12 milligrams (mg). Higher doses, up to 24 mg per day, have been utilized in some studies for specific goals including joint health or athletic performance. On the other hand, it’s typically advised to begin with a smaller dose and gradually increase as necessary.
Because astaxanthin is a fat-soluble substance, it is frequently advised to take it with food or another source of dietary fat to improve absorption. Its advantages may be increased as a result.
As usual, you should seek medical advice before beginning any new supplement regimen, particularly if you have any underlying medical issues, are on medication, are pregnant, or are nursing. They may give you individualized advice based on your unique requirements and assist in figuring out the right dosage for you.
FAQs:
What is astaxanthin good for?
Astaxanthin is an antioxidant. This effect might protect cells from damage. Astaxanthin might also improve the way the immune system functions. People use astaxanthin for many purposes, including Alzheimer disease, athletic performance, aging skin, muscle soreness from exercise, and many others.
Who should avoid astaxanthin?
Astaxanthin may also cause severe abdominal pain and aplastic anemia. Avoid in patients with known allergy or hypersensitivity to astaxanthin or related carotenoids, including canthaxanthin, or in those with hypersensitivity to an astaxanthin source, such as Haematococcus pluvialis.
Is astaxanthin the same as vitamin C?
It is 6,000 times stronger than vitamin C, 800 times stronger than CoQ10, 550 times stronger than Green Tea Catechins and 75 times stronger than Alpha Lipoic Acid. Apart from its exceptional anti-oxidant capacity, Astaxanthin has also been proven to have a positive effect on collagen production but also sun protection.
Does astaxanthin lighten skin?
Astaxanthin also helps lighten dark spots. It is a potent protection against ultraviolet radiation, assisting the skin in protecting itself against damage by the sun. Simply put, it lightens age spots by preventing too much melanin.
What is the king of antioxidants?
Glutathione peroxidase works to protect all kinds of cells throughout your body from free radical damage. And it’s Selenium’s role in creating glutathione peroxidase that makes this mineral “The King of Antioxidants”.
Which foods have astaxanthin?
Algae and yeast produce and accumulate astaxanthin naturally. It serves as a food source for marine species like crawfish, lobster, krill, salmon, trout, shrimp, and crab, that transfer this pigment up the food chain.
Can I take astaxanthin daily?
Astaxanthin appears to be recommended in the dosage range of 6-8mg daily, which is low enough that an enriched salmon oil or krill oil supplement may contain adequate levels. Doses of up to 20-50mg astaxanthin have been tolerated, although the exact toxicity and upper limit is not known.
What is the best source of astaxanthin?
Shrimp, crab and salmon can serve as dietary sources of astaxanthin Wild caught salmon is a good source of astaxanthin. In order to get 3.6 mg of astaxanthin one can eat 165 grams of salmon per day. Astaxanthin supplement at 3.6 mg per day can be beneficial to health as reported by Iwamoto et al.
Is it safe to take astaxanthin daily?
Astaxanthin is recommended in the dosage range of 6 to 8 mg daily. It is low enough in enriched salmon oil or krill oil supplement that may contain adequate levels. It is recommended that you should take 8 mg of the drug per day, which is equal to 1.6 kg of fresh salmon.
Is astaxanthin an Omega 3?
Astaxanthin naturally preserves the omega-3 fatty acids and protects krill oil from oxidation, eliminating the need to add preservatives. Globally we are deficient in omega-3s, and that puts us at increased risk for a whole host of health issues.
Which is better vitamin E or astaxanthin?
Vitamin E. When comparing astaxanthin and Vitamin E’s ability to combat free radicals, astaxanthin turns out to be the winner. While not as impressive as 6,000 times, astaxanthin is approximately 550 times better at fighting free radicals than that of vitamin E.
Does astaxanthin increase hair growth?
One study in adult women found that six months of daily intake of a combination supplement including astaxanthin improved hair growth and reduced hair shedding. Due to multiple ingredients in formula, it cannot be extrapolated to conclude that astaxanthin specifically helps with hair growth.
What is the mother of all antioxidants?
Glutathione is a molecule our bodies naturally produce. Due to its chemical composition it has the ability to cleanse free radicals and toxins from our system. Kim Thompson (2011) of Healthy Transformations in New Hartford, NY explains: “Glutathione can be called „the mother of all antioxidants‟.
Does astaxanthin affect hormones?
Astaxanthin also increased the secretion of estrogen and progesterone in follicles, and relieved the inhibitory effects of BPA on the synthesis of steroid hormones.
What vitamins are in astaxanthin?
Astaxanthin is a reddish pigment that belongs to a group of nutrients known as carotenoids. Carotenoids are plant-based compounds that also include pro-vitamin A, beta-carotene, lutein, and lycopene.
Does astaxanthin improve eyesight?
Astaxanthin can be combined with other carotenoids such as Zeaxanthin and lutein. Each of the compounds absorbs slightly different light wave lengths and is distributed in different parts of the eye so the addition of Astaxanthin provides better eye protection.
