Astaxanthin – A Natural Anti-Oxidant for Heart Health & More

Astaxanthin is a dietary supplement used as a natural anti-oxidant. It is taken to inhibit cellular aging and to boost general health. As one of the strongest fat-soluble anti-oxidants found in nature, it is often recommended to combat oxidative damage caused by free radical particles.

Astaxanthin is being studied for its potential benefits in the treatment of certain neurodegenerative, immune, cardiovascular and inflammatory diseases. Some research suggests that astaxanthin can protect tissues from ultraviolet radiation and oxidative stress.

In research studies, this compound has demonstrated anti-anxiety, anti-diabetic, anti-cancer, anti-inflammatory, cardioprotective and other therapeutic benefits. Some of these results have been reported in human research trials, but others have only been observed in animal or in vitro trials so far.

Astaxanthin can be found as an ingredient in Krill Oil products or as a standalone dietary supplement. This supplement is considered safe to take when used at appropriate dosages.

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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What is Astaxanthin?

Astaxanthin is a fat soluble pink-red-pigmented keto-carotenoid called a terpene. It is derived from marine organisms, including algae, some fish and certain crustaceans. Astaxanthin is the substance which makes shrimp appear red when cooked. It also causes the flamingo’s naturally white feathers to turn pink.

The reddish color of astaxanthin is caused by a large chain of conjugated double bonds located in its center. These bonds provide regions of decentralized electrons which may be used intracellularly to neutralize radicalized, oxidizing molecules. The antioxidant properties of astaxanthin are superior to those of vitamin E, vitamin C and beta-carotene.

Routine supplementation with astaxanthin may improve certain markers of aging. The primary mechanism of aging is oxidative stress. By inhibiting the activities of reactive oxygen species (ROS), reactive nitrogen species (RNS) and free radicals like superoxide, astaxanthin may reduce the risks for developing age-related conditions and diseases.

Astaxanthin may regulate aging by enhancing the performance of the insulin signaling pathway, and by upregulating the FOXO3 gene. Research shows benefits for cardiovascular health, eye health, brain health and inflammation.

Some of the properties ascribed to astaxanthin based on currently available research include:

• Anti-hypertensive;
• Anti-asthmatic;
• Cytoprotective, renoprotective and neuroprotective;
• Matrix metalloproteinase (MMP) enzyme inhibitory;
• 5-Alpha-reductase inhibitory;
• Anti-obesogenic and hypolipidemic;
• Anti-viral and photoprotective;

Natural Sources of Astaxanthin

Astaxanthin is found most readily in certain marine organisms. The most plentiful sources is Haematococcus pluvialis, a green microalgae. Other good sources include salmon, shrimp, krill, trout and crayfish.

Astaxanthin supplements are also available commercially from multiple supplement manufacturers. These supplements will usually list the source from which the ingredient is derived. Many prefer to use Astaxanthin in the form of Krill Oil supplements to derive additional benefits from the Omega-3 fatty acids that these products provide.

Astaxanthin is used widely as an animal and fish food additive/colorant. In the United States, naturally-sourced astaxanthin is a GRAS (generally regarded as safe) foodstuff.

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has approved astaxanthin as a food coloring (or color additive) for specific uses in animal and fish foods. As a food coloring in the United States, it is restricted to use in animal food.

Uses for Astaxanthin

Currently, astaxanthin supplements are used to protect against age-related macular degeneration, stroke, some forms of cancer, high lipid levels, Parkinson’s disease and Alzheimer’s disease. Other therapeutic uses are being researched. There is insufficient evidence to rate astaxanthin’s effectiveness for preventing and/or treating:

• Male infertility and low testosterone;
• Renal transplants and certain skin conditions;
• Exercise capacity and exercise-induced muscle soreness;
• Carpal tunnel syndrome and dyspepsia (indigestion);
• Menopausal symptoms
• Rheumatoid arthritis (RA);

Large-scale human research trials are required to determine the therapeutic efficacy of astaxanthin supplements.

Astaxanthin Side Effects

When taken in amounts commonly found in foods, astaxanthin is rated as Likely Safe. In doses between 4 mg and 40 mg daily, this supplement is rated as Possibly Safe for up to 12 weeks. Formulations containing astaxanthin, certain other terpenes, vitamins and minerals have been used without adverse effects for as long as 1 year.

Although astaxanthin is well tolerated at appropriate oral doses, there are certain side effects that have been reported. These include decreases in blood pressure and two cases of abdominal pain. Side effects are generally rare and mild, usually dissipating shortly after usage.

Because this supplement may inhibit the 5-alpha-reductase enzyme, it could cause side effects similar to other compounds that also inhibit this enzyme. These effects are theoretical and have not been demonstrated in human research trials. However, it is recommended to speak to your doctor before using this supplement to determine whether it is appropriate for you.

Astaxanthin Dosing

Different manufactures of astaxanthin provide different recommendations for dosages. Always closely follow the manufacturer’s dosing recommendations on the product you may select. In general, doses between 4 mg and 40 mg daily are used in preliminary trials.

There are no reported drug interactions with astaxanthin. However, astaxanthin does demonstrate certain hypotensive, antidiabetic and other effects which may cause negative interactions with certain pharmaceutical or herbal agents. If you use any prescription medications, or any herbal supplements, then speak to your doctor about the safety of astaxanthin supplementation.

The effects of astaxanthin on lactation and pregnancy are not yet well understood. Usage should be avoided if pregnant or nursing. There is no clinical evidence that can be used to determine the safety of astaxanthin supplementation in children.

Conclusions

Astaxanthin is considered to be one of the most effective natural anti-oxidants available today. It is used to reduce free radical damage and modulate certain markers of aging.

This supplement may provide benefits that relate to eye health, brain health, cardiovascular health and reduced inflammation in the body. It is generally well tolerated with a low risk of side effects when used appropriately. You can find astaxanthin supplements available for sale online in single ingredient formulations or as an ingredient in Krill Oil capsules.

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