Astaxanthin – the Red Antioxidant from the Sea

Astaxanthin is a carotenoid, more specifically a xanthophyll, and therefore belongs to the group of fat-soluble pigments. It is formed in the sea algae Haematococcus pluvialis, among others. Animals, such as salmon or flamingos, get their colour thanks to consuming this alga. As for its effect on humans, in the right dose it thankfully does not have a colour impact, but it does have a number of benefits.

Allrounder for your Whole Body

Astaxanthin has a positive impact on:

… the Skin. Astaxanthin protects our skin from UV-rays, and as such from resultant oxidative stress from free radicals. These are very reactive and unstable molecules which lack an electron. In order to stabilise themselves, they take an electron from other molecules in the skin, and this causes skin damage. high concentrations of free radicals can be caused by UV light, the consumption of tobacco and alcohol, permanent stress, or air pollution, and they are one of the primary causes of skin ageing. As such, astaxanthin, with its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effect, is helpful in cases of inflammation of the skin surface.

… the Brain. Astaxanthin can slow down the age-related deterioration of neurons in our brain. It also has antioxidant as well as anti-inflammatory effects and activates enzymes that ward off oxidative stress. In addition, it protects against the deposition of certain proteins that occur particularly in Alzheimer's and can reduce nerve damage caused by Parkinson's disease or a stroke.

… the Joints. The anti-inflammatory properties of astaxanthin can also be useful for joint problems. It is mainly used for chronic joint inflammation.

… the Eyes. Numerous studies show the positive effects of astaxanthin on eyes and retinas. It can pass through the blood-retinal barrier and accumulate in it. Extensive research has also been carried out into the positive effects on age-related macular degeneration, cataracts and glaucoma, inflammatory diseases such as retinitis or iritis and diabetic retinopathy.

… the Heart. Oxidative stress and inflammation are both involved in the development of cardiovascular diseases. The potential benefits of astaxanthin on cardiovascular health have already been seen in numerous preclinical studies. Astaxanthin can be used to prevent the progression or as an aid in the treatment of cardiovascular diseases, especially atherosclerosis. Athletes can also benefit from astaxanthin thanks to the so-called "cardiotonic effect", which shows that the heart can regenerate more easily after a long-distance run due to improved blood circulation.

… the Energy Levels. Several studies have also looked at the performance-enhancing effect of astaxanthin. One study, which was conducted over a month, involved cyclists who took 4 mg of astaxanthin daily. The placebo-controlled trial showed that the test persons were able to optimise their performance by taking it - they reached the finish line 2 minutes faster on average. In the comparison group, no significant change could be found in the study participants who received a placebo.

Astaxanthin a Wonder Drug? Not entirely!

However, like most food supplements, astaxanthin is no panacea. Nevertheless, oxidative stress and/or inflammation in the body are the main causes for many ailments. Astaxanthin can definitely have a positive influence on various physical maladies if taken regularly. In addition, a doctor should be consulted, especially in the case of chronic conditions. Factors that have a negative effect on existing or developing diseases should also be reduced as much as possible.

Green algae as a natural source of astaxanthin

In vitro studies have shown that natural astaxanthin has 50 times more antioxidant activity than synthetic astaxanthin. Algae such as the blood rain algae (Haematococcus pluvialis) are considered natural sources of astaxanthin. If these green algae come under stress, they will accumulate astaxanthin in their cells for self-protection, which protects them against harmful UV radiation and nutrient deficiencies. In this process, the algae turn from green to red, which has given the blood rain algae their name. This environmental stress can mean the absence of food or water, or too high temperatures. Astaxanthin has such a high oxidative protection factor that the cells can survive for several years in extreme climatic conditions without food or water.