Astaxanthin is a naturally occurring pigment that belongs to the class of carotenoids, which is found in marine organisms such as micro-algae, shrimps, and salmon. Astaxanthin is often referred to as the "king of antioxidants" due to its wide variety of health-promoting effects. Unlike other antioxidants, it does not turn into a pro-oxidant in the body, and this makes it stable and effective. So, what does astaxanthin do to your body?
1. Supports Skin Health and Appearance
Astaxanthin is commonly known to benefit the skin, especially for protection against the sun and hydration. It adds up to the skin layers and assists in mitigating sun-related oxidative stress. Research shows that when one takes in a regular amount of astaxanthin, skin elasticity can be improved and wrinkles reduced, as well as the texture of skin.
In addition, it supports skin moisture retention and the skin barrier function, and thus is very useful in dry settings or aging clients. Instead of a topical regimen, oral supplementation provides systemic support to the skin from within.
2. Enhances Eye Function and Comfort
The health benefits of the eye are one of the most researched benefits of astaxanthin. It penetrates the blood-retinal barrier and facilitates the minimization of eye fatigue, particularly for those individuals who spend long hours at digital screens. By eliminating oxidative stress in ocular tissues, astaxanthin promotes a healthier retina, and the visual acuity could increase in the long term.
Clinical trials have demonstrated enhanced focus recovery and decreased eye strain symptoms in subjects who have been taking daily doses of astaxanthin over a few weeks. It's commonly formulated with other nutrients such as lutein and zeaxanthin for overall eye support.
3. Promotes Cardiovascular Wellness
Astaxanthin aids in cardiovascular health in that it protects the lipids from oxidative damage and enhances blood flow. It has been connected with the reduction of LDL oxidation and the enhancement of endothelial function, which are both important for the normal state of blood vessels.
Moreover, it may promote balanced blood pressure and circulation thanks to the influence on nitric oxide routes. This antioxidant activity supports the relaxation of blood vessels and low blood pressure from arterial stiffness, especially in the aging population.
4. Supports Joint and Muscle Recovery
Active individuals may find it advantageous that astaxanthin helps to lessen the fatigue they experience in the muscles and the discomfort in the joints. Its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects help reduce oxidative damage after an exercise, hence the faster recovery and better endurance.
Studies have shown that astaxanthin supplementation may help to decrease markers of muscle damage and inflammation, for instance, C-reactive protein (CRP). It may also increase mobility as well as joint flexibility when applied frequently over a period.
5. Strengthens Immune Function
Astaxanthin encourages the modulation of the immune system as it increases the functioning of T-cells and natural killer (NK) cells. It is useful for maintaining the immune balance, particularly in case of stress or seasonal shifts.
Its contribution towards mucosal immunity also stands out, and therefore is useful in protecting against external pathogens. Unlike substances that stimulate immune responses excessively, astaxanthin keeps the immune response to a reasonable level, minus the extra inflammation.
6. Improves Mitochondrial and Cellular Health
Mitochondria, the energy factories of the cells, are very sensitive to oxidative stress. Astaxanthin prevents damage to mitochondrial membranes, improves their function, thus giving improved cellular energy production.
Maintaining the integrity of the mitochondria, astaxanthin helps provide better stamina, better metabolism, and increased resilience to high physical and mental stress.
7. Supports Cognitive Performance
Contemporary reports indicate that astaxanthin might protect brain cells from oxidative and environmental attacks. Ones that can cross the blood-brain barrier and help neuroplasticity, memory, and focus.
Prior human studies have demonstrated enhancements in cognitive functions as well as clarity of the mind with astaxanthin supplementation. These benefits are believed to be due to increased cerebral blood flow and decreased oxidative load of brain tissues.
Conclusion
The effects of astaxanthin extend across various systems in the human body – skin, eyes, heart, joints, and brain. Its strong antioxidant contents and capacity to tackle different tissues combine to provide it with a singular and promising status as a long-term wellness compound. Although further research is being carried out, existing evidence upholds its efficiency as an effective dietary component with a far-reaching physiological effect.
What do you think of the benefits of astaxanthin? Please leave a message directly through this website or contact donna@kingsci.com directly to get free astaxanthin samples and more support!
References
Fassett, R. G., & Coombes, J. S. (2012). Astaxanthin: A potential therapeutic agent in cardiovascular disease. Marine Drugs, 10(2), 272–285. https://doi.org/10.3390/md10020272
Park, J. S., Chyun, J. H., Kim, Y. K., Line, L. L., & Chew, B. P. (2010). Astaxanthin decreased oxidative stress and inflammation and enhanced immune response in humans. Nutrition & Metabolism, 7, 18. https://doi.org/10.1186/1743-7075-7-18
Davinelli, S., Nielsen, M. E., & Scapagnini, G. (2018). Astaxanthin in skin health, repair, and disease: A comprehensive review. Nutrients, 10(4), 522. https://doi.org/10.3390/nu10040522
Nakagawa, K., & Miyazawa, T. (2020). Potential of astaxanthin in human health and nutrition. Journal of Clinical Biochemistry and Nutrition, 66(1), 27–35. https://doi.org/10.3164/jcbn.19-57
Nishida, Y., Yamashita, E., & Miki, W. (2007). Quenching activities of common hydrophilic and lipophilic antioxidants against singlet oxygen using chemiluminescence detection system. Carotenoid Science, 11, 16–20.
