Carotenoids are natural organic pigments that are synthesized by plants and are responsible for the bright colors of various fruits and vegetables. Dozens of carotenoids are present in the foods we eat, and most of them have antioxidant activities. But, nature’s most powerful carotenoid antioxidant is Astaxanthin. It is a keto-carotenoid, which is a colorful and lipid-soluble pigment found in microalgae, salmon, yeast, trout, krill, shrimp, and the feathers of some birds. Astaxanthin has the capability to provide red color of salmon meat and cooked shellfish. Studies have shown that Professor Basil Weedon’s group proved the structure of Astaxanthin by synthesis, in the year 1975.

Astaxanthin benefits:

Astaxanthin is antioxidative artillery, which provides an impressive array of health benefits. These include stabilizing blood sugar, cardiovascular health, boosting the immune system, fighting against cancer, reducing inflammation, and improving eye health. Moreover, Astaxanthin benefits include helping protect against sunburn. The health benefits of Astaxanthin are mentioned in detail below:

Protecting the skin from UV-induced damage:

One of the main health claims of Astaxanthin is protection against UV damage from the sun. Astaxanthin works as an internal sunscreen, which helps in reducing the inflammation and UVA damage to skin cells. Researchers have shown in studies that Astaxanthin has the capability to rejuvenate skin because of the algae Haematococcus pluvialis present in it. Astaxanthin is among the most powerful antioxidants, which has the ability to remove skin-damaging free radicals. This way Astaxanthin provides effective protection against ultraviolet radiations and works as an internal sunscreen for humans.

Also Read: Benefits of Healthy Eating for Your Skin

Astaxanthin dosage:

Studies have shown that 6 mg of Astaxanthin daily for 6-8 weeks may reduce water loss, crow’s feet wrinkles, and age spot size. Astaxanthin dosage may also enhance elasticity, moisture content, and skin texture in both men and women if combined with the topical Astaxanthin application.

Protecting against cardiovascular diseases:

Due to its antioxidant effects, Astaxanthin helps in fighting against cardiovascular diseases at multiple levels. Astaxanthin improves endothelial function, lowers the blood pressure, and delays hypertension induced strokes. Additionally, it has been researched that in humans and animals, Astaxanthin helps in normalizing lipid profiles, and reducing triglyceride and cholesterol levels.

Also read: How to Maintain a Healthy Heart?

Slowing ageing the brain:

Several studies have been conducted over the few years, which have proved that astaxanthin exerts multiple effects on the brain’s health. It has been proved in studies that astaxanthin protects neurons and also slows the effects of age-related cognitive decline. Moreover, researchers have found in a study conducted on the few people who took astaxanthin that the dosage had significantly decreased the accumulation of phospholipid hydroperoxides, which is a compound that accumulates in people with dementia or age-related forgetfulness.

Furthermore, various studies have determined that the doses of astaxanthin as high as 20 mg a day regularly for 4 weeks is free of side effects. It has also been proved in those studies that astaxanthin supplement effectively slowed down age-related decline in cognitive and psychomotor functions.

Astaxanthin as an anti-inflammatory supplement:

Astaxanthin is believed to be the most potent antioxidant nature has to offer. In terms of antioxidant power it helps in reducing inflammation, as it is 550 times stronger than vitamin E and 6,000 times than vitamin C. Moreover, studies have stated that the combination of a high-potency antioxidant and its anti-inflammatory properties allow astaxanthin to address a wide range of health concerns, including joint problems like rheumatoid arthritis and tennis elbow.

Also read: Arthritis – Don’t Make Joint Pain An Old Age Companion

Astaxanthin for Endurance:

Astaxanthin is very beneficial for athletes, as it has the ability to enhance their performance. Whether the athlete is an intense trainer or just a beginner, astaxanthin increases the endurance of athletes. Basically, astaxanthin works by reducing free radicals to speed up recovery time and also reduces production of lactic acid that reduces muscle soreness and recovery time.

If you have decided to give astaxanthin a try should start with 2 mg per day. You can also increase the astaxanthin dosage to about 4 mg per day or more if you’re an athlete.

Final words:
You have gone through the immense benefits of astaxanthin and if you have decided to add it in your diet, then you should first head to your physician. He/she will prescribe astaxanthin supplements along with the required quantity you need each day. As, there are numerous supplements available on the market which contain astaxanthin, so it is necessary for you to check the label before purchasing the product.