The Power of Astaxanthin: Nature’s Hidden Gem

Astaxanthin is a vibrant, naturally occurring carotenoid pigment that’s found in certain algae and seafood such as salmon, trout, and shrimp. This powerful antioxidant has been quietly making waves in the health and wellness community, and for good reason. It’s not just the brilliant red-orange hue that makes astaxanthin stand out, but the myriad of health benefits it offers [1].

Astaxanthin in nature

Picture this: a salmon, battling against the current, swimming upstream for hundreds of miles to spawn. It’s a grueling journey, requiring immense strength and endurance. But have you ever wondered how these fish manage such a feat? The secret lies in astaxanthin [2]. This potent antioxidant is what gives salmon their pink color and their incredible stamina.

These benefits extend to others in the animal kingdom, particularly certain species of birds. Birds of prey, like eagles and hawks, have incredibly sharp vision, a crucial adaptation for hunting. Astaxanthin is found in the diets of these birds and contributes to their eye health. It helps protect their eyes from UV damage and oxidative stress, enhancing visual acuity and precision. This allows them to spot and track their prey from great distances, even against complex backgrounds. It’s like nature’s own high-definition vision enhancer, giving these birds a critical edge in the survival game.

Where to find Astaxanthin

Astaxanthin, a super-antioxidant, has been the subject of much scientific interest due to its remarkable health benefits. But have you ever wondered about the origin of this potent compound? The answer lies in the microscopic world of algae, specifically a type known as Haematococcus Pluvialis.

Haematococcus Pluvialis is a unique microalga that has evolved an extraordinary survival mechanism. When faced with harsh conditions such as nutrient scarcity or intense sunlight, it responds by producing astaxanthin. This is a fascinating example of a biological stress-induced adaptation, not unlike a tiny, self-sufficient factory that kicks into high gear when the going gets tough, producing one of nature’s most potent antioxidants.

Astaxanthin production and hormesis

This process is not unlike the concept of hormesis in human physiology. Hormesis is a biological phenomenon where a beneficial effect results from exposure to low doses of an agent that is otherwise toxic or lethal when given in higher amounts. In the context of exercise, for instance, physical stress such as weightlifting or high-intensity interval training induces a hormetic response. The body, in response to the stress of exercise, produces antioxidants and other protective compounds to repair the damage and strengthen the system against future stress.

Similarly, Haematococcus pluvialis, when subjected to environmental stress, produces astaxanthin. This super-antioxidant acts as a protective shield, helping the algae survive in harsh conditions. It’s a remarkable example of nature’s resilience and adaptability, and it’s this very process that allows us to harness the health benefits of astaxanthin.

Astaxanthin derived from microalgae is considered the best source because it’s the most concentrated and bioavailable form [4].

Astaxanthin: 8 Impressive Health Advantages

Astaxanthin is a multifaceted nutrient with health-enhancing effects largely due to its potent antioxidant capabilities. Astaxanthin offers a protective barrier for your eyes, skin, heart, and immune system against oxidative stress.

1. Astaxanthin: A Visionary for Eye Health

Carotenoids are well-known for their crucial role in eye health, particularly in protecting the retina from UV damage. Advanced eye health supplements often include astaxanthin, along with other carotenoids like beta-carotene, lutein, and zeaxanthin. Biosuperfood Microalage contains these naturally in high amounts, which are bioavailable. A study confirmed astaxanthin’s effectiveness in safeguarding against eye strain, especially for those working with visual displays. In our tech-centric world, astaxanthin can be a beneficial supplement for anyone spending significant time in front of screens.

2. Astaxanthin: A Robust Antioxidant

The benefits of astaxanthin extend far beyond skin deep. It’s a powerhouse when it comes to fighting oxidative stress, often referred to as “free radicals.”, which is a key player in the aging process and many chronic diseases [7]. Astaxanthin’s antioxidant properties are so potent that it’s been shown to be up to 6,000 times stronger than vitamin C, 800 times stronger than CoQ10, and 550 times stronger than green tea catechins [8]. For fitness enthusiasts out there, astaxanthin can be a game-changer. It can enhance physical performance and reduce recovery time by combating exercise-induced oxidative stress and inflammation [11] It’s like having a personal trainer and a recovery team all in one, helping you push harder and bounce back faster.

3. Astaxanthin: A Catalyst for Youthful, Glowing Skin

Often referred to as “nature’s sunscreen,” astaxanthin protects our skin from the damaging effects of UV radiation [5]. Regular consumption of astaxanthin has been linked to improved skin health, including increased moisture levels, elasticity, and reduced fine lines and wrinkles [6].  It’s like having a secret weapon for your skin, working from the inside out.  It has also been found to reduce the appearance of wrinkles and dryness, and when combined with collagen, it can improve skin structure and boost collagen production.

4. Astaxanthin: A Supporter of Liver Health

Your liver is a bustling hub of metabolic and biochemical processes, making it essential for overall health. Given astaxanthin’s antioxidant properties and its ability to combat oxidative stress, it’s no surprise that it’s been studied for its potential to support liver health.

5. Astaxanthin: An Ally for the Immune System

Astaxanthin’s ability to support a healthy inflammatory response and combat oxidative stress makes it a valuable ally for immune health. Studies have shown that astaxanthin can help maintain a healthy immune response, even in athletes who often push their bodies to the limit.

6. Astaxanthin: A Champion for Heart Health

Maintaining cardiovascular health is crucial for longevity, and astaxanthin shines in this department. Its antioxidant properties play a significant role, but it also supports healthy lipid levels. Studies have shown that astaxanthin can enhance the heart’s pumping efficiency, ensuring optimal blood and oxygen supply to all your tissues and cells.

7. Astaxanthin: A Guardian for Metabolic Health

Astaxanthin’s benefits seem to cover a wide range, including metabolic health. Metabolism, the process of converting food into energy, is crucial for the health of your blood vessels, heart, and brain. Astaxanthin has been shown in studies to support healthy carbohydrate and lipid metabolism, contributing to overall metabolic health.

8. Astaxanthin: A Powerhouse for Brain Health

The blood-brain barrier, which keeps out toxins and undesirable substances, protects your brain, the control center of your body. When a potent antioxidant like astaxanthin is found to cross this barrier, it’s a strong indication of its potential for brain health. Astaxanthin is being studied for its potential to optimize brain function, with some studies showing promising results.

Astaxanthin, sourced from microalgae, is a potent antioxidant with a myriad of health benefits. From skin health to heart health, from eye health to brain health, and from physical performance to immune support, astaxanthin is a true all-rounder. It’s a testament to the power of nature, and a reminder that sometimes, the best health solutions are the ones that have been around for millions of years, quietly doing their work in the background. So, let’s raise a glass (or a salmon fillet) to astaxanthin, the unsung hero of the antioxidant world [14].

Are Astaxanthin Supplements Effective?

Astaxanthin supplements can provide all the benefits discussed above. But it’s important to note that as with all nutritional protocols, results are not immediate. Achieving optimal health is a journey that takes time. While astaxanthin supplements won’t transform your skin overnight or instantly optimize your cardiovascular health, they are a scientifically-backed way to enhance your wellness over time, improving all the areas mentioned above.

Biosuperfood microalgae with several carotenoids in their blend (like lutein and astaxanthin) have been scientifically proven to span and cross cellular membranes, including those of the blood-brain barrier, the blood-retinal barrier, and the central nervous system, allowing for greater nutritional and energy support for these harder–to-reach cells. Biosuperfood does this more efficiently than any other antioxidant or food known to man.

If you want to try it for yourself, visit the store and see which formula is best suited to you. You can also download the booklet on usage guidelines: https://biosuperfoodmicroalgae.com/wp-admin/post.php?post=5786&action=edit

Images Copyright: Suzanne Young ©

References:

1. Ambati, R. R., Phang, S. M., Ravi, S., & Aswathanarayana, R. G. (2014). Astaxanthin: sources, extraction, stability, biological activities and its commercial applications—a review. Marine drugs, 12(1), 128-152.

2. Higuera-Ciapara, I., Félix-Valenzuela, L., & Goycoolea, F. M. (2006). Astaxanthin: a review of its chemistry and applications. Critical reviews in food science and nutrition, 46(2), 185-196.

3. Shah, M. M. R., Liang, Y., Cheng, J. J., & Daroch, M. (2016). Astaxanthin-producing green microalga Haematococcus pluvialis: from single cell to high value commercial products. Frontiers in plant science, 7, 531.

4. Capelli, B., Bagchi, D., & Cysewski, G. R. (2013). Synthetic astaxanthin is significantly inferior to algal-based astaxanthin as an antioxidant and may not be suitable as a human nutraceutical supplement. Nutrafoods, 12(4), 145-152.

5. Chalyk, N. E., Klochkov, V. A., Bandaletova, T. Y., Kyle, N. H., Petyaev, I. M. (2017). Continuous astaxanthin intake reduces oxidative stress and reverses age-related morphological changes of residual skin surface components in middle-aged volunteers. Nutr Res. 48:40-48.

6. Tominaga, K., Hongo, N., Karato, M., & Yamashita, E. (2012). Cosmetic benefits of astaxanthin on humans subjects. Acta Biochimica Polonica, 59(1).

7. Fassett, R. G., & Coombes, J. S. (2011). Astaxanthin: a potential therapeutic agent in cardiovascular disease. Marine drugs, 9(3), 447-465.

8. 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.

9. Pashkow, F. J., Watumull, D. G., & Campbell, C. L. (2008). Astaxanthin: a novel potential treatment for oxidative stress and inflammation in cardiovascular disease. The American journal of cardiology, 101(10), S58-S68.

10. Piermarocchi, S., Saviano, S., Parisi, V., Tedeschi, M., Panozzo, G., Scarpa, G., … & Group, C. S. (2012). Carotenoids in Age-related Maculopathy Italian Study (CARMIS): two-year results of a randomized study. European journal of ophthalmology, 22(2), 216-225.

11. Djordjevic, B., Baralic, I., Kotur-Stevuljevic, J., Stefanovic, A., Ivanisevic, J., Radivojevic, N., … & Dikic, N. (2012). Effect of astaxanthin supplementation on muscle damage and oxidative stress markers in elite young soccer players. The Journal of sports medicine and physical fitness, 52(4), 382-392.

12. Che, H., Li, Q., Zhang, T., Wang, D., Yang, L., Xu, J., & Yanagita, T. (2018). Effects of Astaxanthin and Docosahexaenoic-Acid-Acylated Astaxanthin on Alzheimer’s Disease in APP/PS1 Double-Transgenic Mice. Journal of agricultural and food chemistry, 66(19), 4948-4957.

13. 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(1), 18.

14. Galasso, C., Orefice, I., Pellone, P., Cirino, P., Miele, R., Ianora, A., … & Sansone, C. (2018). On the neuroprotective role of astaxanthin: new perspectives?. Marine drugs, 16(8), 247.

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