It might sound like a scary chemical, but astaxanthin is actually a naturally occurring carotenoid (what gives color to plants). It’s usually found in marine organisms like microalgae, salmon, and shrimp.

Astaxanthin has recently become known as a powerful fat-soluble antioxidant and may be beneficial for joints, male fertility, skin health, and brain health.

1. Reduce Oxidative Stress

Astaxanthin is one of nature’s most powerful antioxidants. We love antioxidants because they can help protect cells against oxidative stress, reducing the risk of many diseases, including heart disease, cancer, and arthritis.

2. Promote Joint Health and Reduce Inflammation

Since astaxanthin is a powerful anti-inflammatory, it can be used as an effective remedy for joint pain caused by osteoporosis and arthritis.

3. Improve Male Fertility

A small double blind study, conducted in 2005, suggests a positive effect of astaxanthin on sperm parameters and fertility[1]. The study was done over the course of three months and used high doses of astaxanthin (16 mg/day). The study found an improvement in sperm count, sperm motility, and fertility.

This study was done on a group of 30 men who were previously suffering from infertility. Results need to be confirmed by a larger trial to draw conclusive evidence of the astaxanthin on male fertility, but so far results look promising!

4. Promote Skin Health

As a powerful antioxidant, astaxanthin works to combat free-radical damage to the skin. It can even block UVB rays, working like an internal sunscreen (although it should not replace your physical sun care!). Not only does it protect against sun damage, but it also helps with skin elasticity, inflammation, and hydration[2].

5. Support a Healthy Brain

Although there is more research to be done, astaxanthin is gaining attention for studies showing its effect on brain health. Studies are showing promising results for astaxanthin having neuroprotective properties, which can help with diseases like Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s[3].

Where Can I Find Astaxanthin?

Astaxanthin can be found in whole foods like wild pacific and sockeye salmon, crab, and lobster.  However, to get the most out of astaxanthin, it’s best to use a supplement!

How Do I Supplement Astaxanthin?

Look for a supplement that uses a bioavailable form (like H.pluvialis algae extract!) so your body can absorb and utilize all the benefits. Aim for at least 3mg of astaxanthin per day.

Pure Encapsulations is one brand that makes a high quality, bioavailable astaxanthin supplement.

Many people look to krill oil because it contains some astaxanthin. Unfortunately, many krill oil supplements only contain trace amounts. However, the Genestra Brands krill oil makes a great option!

When taking an astaxanthin supplement, it’s important to take it with a meal containing healthy fats. Astaxanthin is “fat-soluble” meaning it needs fats to be properly utilized by the body.

Are you going to start taking astaxanthin?

 

[1] https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/16110353

[2] https://www.liebertpub.com/doi/abs/10.1089/jmf.2013.3060?rfr_dat=cr_pub%3Dpubmed&url_ver=Z39.88-2003&rfr_id=ori%3Arid%3Acrossref.org&journalCode=jmf&

[3] https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6117702/