Astaxanthin Benefits for Eye Health, Oxidative Stress & More

Astaxanthin benefits for health are attributed to the significant antioxidant effects of this natural carotenoid. Astaxanthin has been described as one of the most powerful antioxidants discovered in nature. It is more effective than Vitamin A, Vitamin C and Vitamin E.

It has a unique chemical structure that makes it able to penetrate both the Blood-Brain Barrier (BBB) and the Blood-Retinal Barrier (BRB). This means that astaxanthin provides antioxidant benefits for both brain cells and the eyes, which makes it rare among natural antioxidants.

Astaxanthin supplements are used in the prevention and/or treatment for AMD (age-related macular degeneration), hyperlipidemia, stroke, certain neurological conditions and certain types of cancer. It is also used topically to inhibit and treat sunburn.

This article will review the results from research studies into the effects of astaxanthin for general health, cardiovascular function, fertility, eye health and more.

Astaxanthin

Anti-Oxidant

Anti- Oxidant

Heart Health

Anti- Aging

How It Works:

• Antioxidant and immune booster
• Supports cardiovascular health
• Shown to improve cholesterol levels

Dosage:

Between 4 - 40 mg per day

Safety:

Rated Possibly Safe

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Astaxanthin Introduction

Astaxanthin is a carotenoid found in nature; mainly in certain marine organisms. Scientifically called Dihydroxy-3,3′ dioxo-4,4′ beta-carotene, astaxanthin is a common pink/red pigmented carotenoid.

Animals are not able to biosynthesize astaxanthin, or other carotenoids internally. This compound must be gained from dietary algae and plants.

The best natural source of astaxanthin known is a green microalgae called Haematococcus pluvialis. Other rich sources include krill, salmon, crayfish, trout, shrimp and certain other crustaceans.

Astaxanthin Benefits for Health

Multiple clinical trials have shown astaxanthin to possess strong antioxidant properties. It may be effective at slowing down cellular aging and preventing certain diseases and conditions.

In-vitro studies show that astaxanthin has more antioxidant strength than other carotenoids; including beta-carotene, vitamin E and lycopene.

Various studies have shown that astaxanthin is able to protect cells against oxidative stress and free radical destruction. In human trials, astaxanthin has decreased plasma 8-OHdG, a biomarker for DNA damage.

In vitro research on human lymphocytes has shown astaxanthin to prevent autoxidation. Laboratory research on astaxanthin has noted inhibition of macrophage activation. MMP (matrix metalloproteinase) activity and scavenger expression were inhibited.

Astaxanthin Benefits for AMD

Age-related macular degeneration (AMD, ARMD) is a common cause of central vision loss in those over 50 years of age. It develops over time and degrades the macula; an oval-shaped spot in the center of the human retina where vision is sharpest.

In most cases, AMD does not cause total blindness. However, it can disrupt central vision to the point where driving, reading and/or recognizing faces may be very difficult.

Preliminary research on astaxanthin’s benefits suggests improvements for certain markers in patients with non-advanced AMD symptoms. Improvements to central retina functioning has been noted by oral administration of a specific preparation containing:

• 4 mg astaxanthin;
• 30 mg vitamin E;
• 180 mg vitamin C;
• 10 mg lutein;
• 22.5 mg zinc;
• 1 mg copper;
• 1 mg zeaxanthin;

This combination was used daily for 12 months. Improvements were noted only in central retina dysfunction; not peripheral retinal dysfunction.

Other Astaxanthin Benefits

Clinical evidence is lacking to accurately rate astaxanthin’s benefits to the following conditions.

Hyperlipidemia:Preliminary placebo-controlled research suggests that oral administration of 6 to 18 mg daily doses of AstaREAL Astaxanthin may improve lipid profiles. In patients with mild hyperlipidemia, 12 weeks of treatment caused decreases in serum triglycerides and increases in high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C).

Dyspepsia: Dyspepsia is another term for indigestion. Introductory research shows that 40 mg astaxanthin each day reduced certain reflux symptoms. Other research shows that taking between 16 mg and 40 mg daily for 4 weeks does not decrease Helicobacter pylori in the digestive tract. These dosages were also not effective for reducing indigestion or abdominal pain in those with functional dyspepsia.

Male infertility: In men diagnosed as infertile for a minimum of 12 months, astaxanthin supplementation significantly improved capacities to induce pregnancy. In one 3-month study, taking 16 mg daily increased total pregnancy rates by 500% compared to taking a placebo agent.

Other preliminary research suggests possible astaxanthin benefits for treating menopause symptoms, rheumatoid arthritis (RA), wrinkled skin and carpal tunnel syndrome.

Astaxanthin Safety

Astaxanthin is a GRAS (generally regarded as safe) foodstuff in the US. It is rated as likely safe when ingested in amounts commonly found in the average diet.

Astaxanthin is possible safe when taken properly and orally. taking between 4 mg and 40 mg has been shown to be safe for up to 12 weeks. In combination with certain other carotenoids, minerals and vitamins, 4 mg of astaxanthin daily has been used without adverse effects for up to 12 months.

The full effects of astaxanthin on pregnancy and lactation are not known. According to the Natural Medicines database, usage should be avoided for pregnant and nursing women.

Conclusions

Astaxanthin benefits are attributed to the antioxidant activity of this supplement. It is commonly used as an anti-aging compound and to promote general wellness.

Clinical research is insufficient to determine any specific therapeutic use. Research continues to explore the potential anticancer, antioxidant, antihypertensive, antidiabetic and other properties associated.

Possible drug interactions have not been determined. Be careful if combining astaxanthin supplementation with other herbal or food-based sources of carotenoids. This may decrease the absorption of astaxanthin. Talk with your doctor about the safety and health benefits of astaxanthin before using this product.

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