What is Astaxanthin?

Astaxanthin is a natural, red-pigmented plant color found in certain microalgae species. This plant color's technical term is ketocarotenoid. To make this as simple as possible, these ketocarotenoids are closely linked to oxygenated plant colors called xanthophylls like lutein. 

These xanthophylls are linked to benefits such as improved eye health and vision. Algae and yeast naturally produce Astaxanthin as a food source for certain marine animals like crawfish, krill, salmon, trout, lobsters, shrimp, and various other marine species. 

Humans get exposure to Astaxanthin, and astaxanthin benefits through the seafood we eat. Fish accumulate Astaxanthin in their flesh pigment primarily. Crustaceans accumulate Astaxanthin in their shells and flesh. So when humans eat seafood like these marine species, we can experience incredible health benefits. 

Holistic nutritionists and other holistic/alternative practitioners believe astaxanthin and astaxanthin supplements can tout various health benefits. Some of these astaxanthin benefits can potentially treat diseases such as heart disease, liver disease, eye health problems, male infertility, and more. In addition, there have been some studies that suggest Astaxanthin may offer some health benefits when consumed regularly via diet or as a supplement. 

Astaxanthin Benefit #1: Heart Health

The heart is one of the most important muscles in your body. It pumps your blood and keeps you alive. It's stating the obvious, but we all want a healthy ticker. There was a 2006 study that showed some benefits for rats when supplementing Astaxanthin for hypertension. 

Claims of Astaxanthin helping prevent heart disease and high cholesterol are also being studied. There is some research suggesting Astaxanthin helps reduce LDL levels. A 2014 study suggests it may eliminate free radicals that can damage heart tissue. 

All these studies are on animals, but the results are promising nonetheless. The only research related to heart health in humans was conducted in 2016 in Japan, and there were some promising positive results for Astaxanthin lowering cholesterol. Still, more research is needed before the results can be more than correlation. 

Astaxanthin Benefit #2: Inflammation

The older we get, the more joint pain we experience. It is a harsh truth for many of us. Some people try to supplement things like fish oil to avoid inflammation and joint pain. It turns out that Astaxanthin might be able to help as well. 

Since plenty of Astaxanthin can come from a seafood-rich diet, as does omega-3 sources, eating more fish can help improve joint pain. However, some research suggests supplementing Astaxanthin may help treat some forms of arthritis and carpal tunnel. 

Astaxanthin accomplishes this because the pigment can reduce proteins within reactive oxygen species. This protein reduction can reduce the risk of rheumatoid arthritis, celiac disease, and other inflammatory diseases. 

Astaxanthin Benefit #3: Infertility

Here we will look at men and how Astaxanthin can help with fertility issues. Infertility is becoming an increasingly common concern for men. Diabetes, obesity, hormonal disorders, mental health problems, and more can cause infertility in men. 

A 2005 study reported improvements in sperm count and motility in 30 men after receiving Astaxanthin. In addition, the antioxidant properties in Astaxanthin can help reduce oxidative stress with sperm and combat male infertility. While this is a small study, there is still some evidence supporting astaxanthin being beneficial. 

Astaxanthin Benefit #4: Exercise Performance

The effects Astaxanthin has on exercise performance have been studied. Intense workouts take a toll on the body. When we exercise, we release the stress hormone cortisol and free radicals. Free radicals creates oxidative stress leading to fatigue, tiredness, and sore muscles. 

Several studies show Astaxanthin might help improve endurance improve stamina, and reduce fatigue during and after workouts. More research needs to be done to support the health claims further, but preliminary studies such as one done in 2005 have been promising. Staying hydrated, getting quality sleep, eating a balanced diet, and having a solid protein intake all boost exercise performance, but Astaxanthin can be a valuable supplement. 

Astaxanthin Benefit #5: Taming Cancer Growth

Because Astaxanthin is a source of antioxidants, it can have potential benefits for those with cancer. So naturally, short-term and long-term benefits for treating cancers have been studied. For example, one study demonstrated astaxanthin combats breast cancer by helping slow down cancer cell growth. 

Astaxanthin Benefit #6: Skin Health

Healthy skin promotion is a potential benefit of supplementing Astaxanthin. Applying topical doses and consuming oral doses of Astaxanthin can help promote an array of benefits. For example, Astaxanthin can help promote smooth wrinkles, reduce age spots, and moisturize the skin. These benefits are fantastic if you spend a lot of time in the sun. 

In addition, the damage caused by UV rays can be reduced by supplementing oral and topical Astaxanthin. A 2013 study suggested Astaxanthin can slow down the potential of skin cancer. 

Astaxanthin Benefit #7: Manages Ulcers

Ulcers are sores that develop inside the body. They typically form in the stomach and esophagus. Ulcers are painful and take a long time to heal. Ulcers can reappear if underlying causes for them are not dealt with.

 For most people, stomach ulcers are the most common. However, ulcers can also be found in the mouth, genitals, and arteries. Symptoms of ulcers include heartburn, nausea, bloating, vomiting, and discomfort when eating or drinking. Antibiotics can help speed up the healing process, but they can continue returning. 

Since Astaxanthin has antioxidant properties, it can alleviate oxidative stress. If you take Astaxanthin orally, it can help control bacteria that can cause ulcers to appear. In addition, Astaxanthin can help protect intestinal wall lining to prevent ulcers from popping up. 

Astaxanthin Benefit #8: Immune Support

The immune system is the primary defense system against viruses, bacteria, and all sorts of nasty intruders that enter our bodies. However, if the immune system is not functioning properly, diseases enter the body and wreak havoc on your health. With this in mind, how rapidly your immune system responds to threats is critical. Too slow, and you end up sick. Many diseases work specifically by attacking the immune system, such as HIV. 

Astaxanthin can help boost your immune system by helping activate white blood cells and natural killer cells. For those that don't know, white blood cells (T-cells) attack foreign intruders based on antigen markers. Natural killer cells (NK cells) work to stop intruders that weaken your health. Simply put, Astaxanthin can help ensure your immune system is functioning optimally by stimulating immune response time. 

Astaxanthin Benefit #9: Supports Brain Health

Astaxanthin can positively affect brain health by lowering the risk of cognitive diseases. This is possible because Astaxanthin is capable of crossing the blood-brain barrier to protect your brain. Some diseases astaxanthin can help protect you from is Alzheimer's, dementia, memory problems, and other cognitive issues. 

A 2010 study supports the idea that Astaxanthin can slow down the onset of neurodegenerative disorders. Even some neurological functions can possibly be recovered over time, according to that 2010 study. 

Astaxanthin Benefit #10: Liver Support

Fatty liver disease is becoming more common as obesity rates rise. Fatty liver disease occurs due to inflammation in the liver, which comes from oxidative stress like most inflammation. 

Astaxanthin can be helpful by reducing inflammation and as a health booster. 

Risks Associated With Astaxanthin

Yes, Astaxanthin comes with a host of health benefits associated with it. However, there are a couple of risks associated with it as well. These are minor, and for most people, they won't matter. If you fit into a couple of categories, do a little more research before you commit to supplementing Astaxanthin. 

Blood Pressure Medication

Astaxanthin can help lower blood pressure naturally, so if you have blood pressure issues and are medicated or looking into medication, you need to talk to your doctor about it before taking it. 

Pregnancy And New Moms

You need to know that there is no research on the potential side effects of Astaxanthin on pregnant women or new mothers who are breastfeeding. Like most supplements and medications, you will want to talk to a doctor and avoid Astaxanthin in high quantities while pregnant and/or breastfeeding to be safe.

Allergies

Most natural Astaxanthin comes from seafood and algae. So if you have a seafood allergy, find other astaxanthin supplements instead. It also wouldn't hurt to talk to your doctor before supplementing Astaxanthin to ensure you find a source that won't cause an allergic reaction. 

What Supplement Should You Use?

Astaxanthin is a powerful antioxidant from which the majority of the benefits are derived. By supplementing an antioxidant, you can rid your body of free radicals that can cause many health concerns. Antioxidants are why people dote on blueberries, so what's the harm in adding a seafood-based antioxidant? 

Truthfully, if you're like me, you're thankful all those surf and turf dinners and sushi have some benefit to them. For those looking for a sustainable source of Astaxanthin, the company you want is Purity Labs. They have a long list of USDA-certified organic products, including Astaxanthin. Purity Labs sources their carotenoids from Algatech, a company focused on eco-friendly sourcing of the bounties nature offers for our health.