The field of health and wellness is growing and astaxanthin has proved to be a popular dietary supplement thanks to its antioxidant effects. Since talking about its effects on the skin, eyes and body, some people question if astaxanthin can disrupt sleep. Looking at the evidence from studies can help you know which effects are real and which are fictional.
Astaxanthin: A Natural Powerhouse
The strong red color of astaxanthin comes from microalgae and can be found in salmon, krill and certain marine organisms. As it is an antioxidant, this lipid molecule can neutralize free radicals which can result in cell damage. Eating or drinking astaxanthin allows it to get into the blood and visit many organs and tissues in the body, among them, the brain. The particular way its molecules are organized makes it pass through the blood-brain barrier, so it acts directly on brain cells. Thanks to this, people have started exploring how REM sleep might be involved in regulating the brain's functions.
Astaxanthin and Physiological Regulation
Looking at how astaxanthin affects the key functions related to sleep is one thing to think about. Research indicates that astaxanthin might support healthy circadian rhythm. The circadian rhythm helps control many biological functions such as when we sleep or wake up. Decrease in oxidative stress and inflammation helps support the normal workings of the circadian rhythm, so astaxanthin might assist in regular sleep patterns. Besides, astaxanthin has been tied to better heart health. Blood going to the brain through a healthy circulatory system supports sleeping well. Because of these benefits, astaxanthin is expected to help sleep rather than create sleep problems.
Influence on Neurotransmitters and Sleep
Neurotransmitters are essential for sleep which is why knowing how astaxanthin affects them is important. By way of example, serotonin plays a part in regulating mood, sleep and appetite. A shortage of serotonin is commonly linked to sleeping poorly such as by having insomnia. There is evidence that shows astaxanthin can affect the right balance of neurotransmitters in the brain. Astaxanthin is thought to reduce oxidative stress in the brain which may ensure serotonin is made and works properly. Gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA), responsible for relaxation and peaceful sleep, might also be helped by taking astaxanthin. So, it appears that astaxanthin may play a role in supporting a good night's sleep by supporting the correct levels of certain brain chemicals linked to sleep.
Individual Variations and Considerations
There is scientific data saying astaxanthin may help with sleep, but how it works for each person can be different. Things like a person's diet, their lifestyle, existing health problems and their genes may affect the way they respond to astaxanthin. Those prone to being sensitive to supplements or who already have sleep issues, may observe other results. At present, no research proves that independently taking astaxanthin causes insomnia. How much astaxanthin you take is important as well. Most studies that test astaxanthin give recommended dosages and none has shown any detrimental effects on sleep within this range. Most of the time, it's smart to start by taking the smallest dose that works and see what the reaction is.
Conclusion: Separating Myths from Reality
To sum up, scientific evidence is not strong enough to say that astaxanthin can lead to insomnia. Alternatively, evidence suggests that the antioxidant and anti-inflammatory abilities, along with astaxanthin's effects on bodily systems, could promote good rest and sleep. Still, just like other supplements, individual results can be different.
If you're interested in learning more about astaxanthin, its benefits, or how it can fit into your health routine, feel free to contact us at donna@kingsci.com. Our team of experts is ready to provide personalized advice and answer any questions you may have.
References
- Kim, J. Y., et al. (2021). Astaxanthin: A Potential Nutraceutical for Metabolic Syndrome. Nutrients, 13(8), 2746.
- Lee, S. H., et al. (2022). The Role of Astaxanthin in Obesity and Metabolic Disorders: A Review of Current Evidence. Antioxidants, 11(11), 2220.
- Wang, X., et al. (2023). Astaxanthin: A Promising Natural Compound for Health Promotion and Disease Prevention. Molecules, 28(12), 5003.
