The market is constantly flooded with new “miracle supplements,” but most fall short of expectations. Astaxanthin, however, defies this trend. This carotenoid is gaining significant attention in the medical community, and the reasons behind its impact are quite evident.
Powerful Antioxidant
Free radicals are molecules with unpaired electrons, which can lead to several negative health consequences. They are known to accelerate the aging process and have been scientifically linked to more than a hundred diseases. These rogue molecules snatch electrons from other cells in the body and are even capable of damaging cellular DNA, triggering potentially harmful chain reactions.
Antioxidants serve the body in diverse ways to counter the impact of free radicals. Some selflessly offer up their own electrons, protecting the body’s cells in the process. Others capture free radicals and render them harmless, or put a halt to the chain reactions triggered by these radicals.Regardless of the method, antioxidants play a vital role in eliminating harmful free radicals from the body. Through numerous experiments, Astaxanthin has demonstrated itself as one of the most potent antioxidants recognised by the scientific community.
At the 21st Annual Meeting on Carotenoid Research in Osaka, Japan, a study revealed Astaxanthin’s exceptional effectiveness against singlet oxygen (a radical generated by UV exposure that damages skin and eyes). It outperformed other antioxidants significantly, being 6,000 times more effective than Vitamin C, 800 times greater than coenzyme Q10, 550 times stronger than green tea catechins, and 75 times more potent than alpha lipoic acid.
In another research endeavor, it was observed that the skin took a prolonged period to develop redness (erythema) from harmful UV rays after just two weeks of Astaxanthin supplementation (Lorenz, T, 2002).
Boosts Recovery
Previously, it was widely accepted that longer recovery times post-exercise were an inherent aspect of aging. Although some decline is unavoidable with age, research has indicated that Astaxanthin can reduce the production of free radicals induced by exercise, providing a new perspective on this conventional understanding.
In a 1998 Swedish study assessing the strength of young males (17 to 19 years old), 40 participants were divided into two groups: 20 received a placebo, while the remaining 20 were given a daily dose of 4mg Astaxanthin. Their strength was measured through repetitions of knee bends at a 90° angle. After six months, the results indicated that the males taking Astaxanthin exhibited a 62% improvement in both strength and endurance compared to the placebo group (Malmsten, 1998).
Improves Cognitive Function
Multiple studies have highlighted Astaxanthin’s ability to protect neurological function and boost cognition. A study at Japan’s Juntendo University involved elderly participants taking Astaxanthin capsules for 12 weeks, revealing a noteworthy improvement in learning and cognition compared to those without the supplement. This discovery holds promise for individuals facing a decline in mental sharpness as they age (Satoh, et al, 2009).
Promotes Joint Health
Joint degeneration often stems from inflammation, which can be triggered by the body’s inflammatory response, even without a specific cause. This joint inflammation leads to irritation, swelling, and, over time, can contribute to the gradual breakdown of cartilage and joint degeneration. Astaxanthin has the potential to alleviate inflammation following strenuous exercise, offering support to joint health.
Astaxanthin, with its natural anti-inflammatory capabilities, works by inhibiting COX2 enzymes and diminishing serum levels of nitric oxide, C Reactive Protein, interleukin 1B, prostaglandin E2, and TNF-alpha.
Given Astaxanthin’s impact on cognition, joints, and other areas of the body prone to age-related decline, it stands as an excellent anti-aging supplement. Incorporating it into our routine supports the maintenance of strength and overall well-being as we progress through the aging journey.
Sources
http://www.fujihealthscience.com/fuji_dec07.pdf
http://europepmc.org/abstract/MED/22828460
Capelli, Bob, and Gerald Cysewski. Natural Astaxanthin.
Embrace Healthy Aging with SainHealth Astaxanthin.
SainHealth Astaxanthin, a red carotenoid micro-algae cultivated along the pristine Kailua-Kona coast of Hawaii, stands as an exclusive and premium source of powerful antioxidants. Outshining other well-known antioxidants, it is 5,000 times stronger than Vitamin C, offering a robust shield for your well-being.
