Astaxanthin is a unique substance with strong antioxidant properties and is the best assistant in the fight against free radicals. Unlike analogues, it is not well known, but very effective. The human body cannot synthesize it. Seaweed and the organisms that feed on them (shrimp, lobster, salmon, etc.) produce antioxidants. It is this substance that gives the fish its bright color.
Astaxanthin - what is this substance?
Astaxanthin is a powerful antioxidant. According to the classification, it belongs to lutein, a subclass of a group of natural pigments in the carotenoid family. They are produced in both plant (mainly algae) and animal organisms. Many sea creatures, such as shrimp, lobster and salmon, are bright red due to the high amount of astaxanthin they get in their food. It is found in small microbes and plankton and enters the body when eating algae.
While researching astaxanthin, scientists discovered that the substance has a powerful antioxidant effect. According to some reports, it exceeds:
- Alpha Lipoic Acid - 70 servings.
- Green tea - 400-500 servings.
- Coenzyme Q10 - 800 servings.
- Vitamin C - 6000 times.
This difference in potency does not make astaxanthin unsafe compared to other sources. Due to the action and high bioavailability, using small amounts of this substance as a supplement provides the recommended dose of antioxidants.
"The importance of this substance is that it is not produced in the body. Astaxanthin is found in very small amounts in food, so large amounts of food must be consumed to obtain the recommended amount of the substance. In many countries, foods containing antioxidants (freshly caught lobster, shrimp, salmon, seaweed) are considered antioxidant deficient and are rarely included in the diet. This is why bioactive additives are the best and most convenient source of substances for human intake."
Benefits and Effects of Astaxanthin:
This substance is an antioxidant, since the main effect of astaxanthin is the complex protection of the body. It counteracts free radicals and stops the chain reaction of processes that are harmful to the body. Additionally, properties of astaxanthin include:
- Anti-inflammatory effect.
- Maintain cellular health and integrity.
- Rejuvenating effect.
- Reduce joint and muscle pain.
- Improves the condition of skin, hair and nails.
- Intake of astaxanthin affects almost all body systems and has complex effects.
- from the side of the skin
- It has a dramatic effect on the condition of the skin, improving its tone and health:
- Smoothes wrinkles.
- Increases elasticity and firmness.
- Reduces dryness and flaking.
- Hydrates and eliminates excess shine.
One of the most important roles of supplements is to reduce cellular damage and protect against UV rays,
From the side:
Increases visual focus, the ability to focus on a point. Reduce eye strain. Protects the retina from direct sunlight. With constant intake in the body, it can reduce the risk of cataracts and glaucoma and slow the progression of the disease.
"Astaxanthin is also useful in the elderly, a substance that slows down the degradation process in the eyes associated with aging."
From the side of the brain:
Increase cognitive function and mental activity. Helps increase oxygen saturation of brain cells. Improve memory and concentration. Protects the central nervous system and helps reduce stress.
From the cardiovascular system:
When taken regularly, it improves blood microcirculation and normalizes the level of glucose in the blood plasma. It also protects the body from hydroperoxides in red blood cells, which enhances cell destruction.
From the digestive system:
It is used to prevent stomach ulcers and other digestive disorders. Inhibits inflammatory processes, reduces fermentation. Reduce the activity of pathogenic bacteria.
"Scientific studies have proven that taking astaxanthin has a positive effect and can be considered as a preventive measure against cancer, diabetes, Alzheimer's and Parkinson's diseases, diseases of the cardiovascular system."
In the context of the COVID-19 pandemic, particular attention to this antioxidant has emerged. Antioxidants, especially alpha lipoic acid and vitamin C, are used medicinally to slow disease progression and the recovery process. Severe respiratory distress - syndrome , reduces the effects of oxidative stress. Given the high potency, post-COVID astaxanthin may be a more effective alternative to other antioxidants.
Astaxanthin for Athletes:
In addition to the general benefits of astaxanthin for humans, supplementation for athletes should also be considered individually. With an active lifestyle and physical activity, the number of free radicals increases significantly. It often overwhelms the body's defenses, leading to increased fatigue, increased pain and a suppressed immune system. It also increases the risk of various system failures. The beneficial properties of astaxanthin can significantly speed up the recovery process and the rate at which exercise progresses. Among other effects, in order to improve the performance of athletes, it is very important that:
- Protects muscles from damage.
- Improve stamina level.
- Recover faster after stress.
- Contraindications to taking astaxanthin
The substance is considered well-studied, and therefore, scientists can safely assert that astaxanthin is not harmful. Even with significantly increased recommended doses, no cases of negative effects were recorded. The additive has neither mutagenic nor clastogenic properties. It can be used continuously because it is not addictive.
The only contraindication is related to the combined effect of astaxanthin with certain classes of drugs. Avoid using both:
- Lower blood sugar levels.
- Medicines to treat hormonal imbalances.
- Immunosuppressants.
- Medicines that lower blood pressure.
- How to Take Astaxanthin
This substance is considered very powerful, so it's important to research supplement directions and learn how to take astaxanthin. Although the drug has no side effects even when the dose is increased, it is recommended to stick to the prescribed dose. The normal daily range is 4 to 30 mg. It depends on body weight, level of physical activity throughout the day, and diet. Low or moderate activity, in situations where the diet is often deficient in seafood and red fish, a daily dose of 20-30 mg is recommended (20-60 mg for a body weight of about 60 kg and 65 mg for a body weight of about 30-80 kg) body weight more than XNUMX kg).
The maximum daily dose is 40 mg. Its excess will not increase the effect linearly, and the rest of the substances exceeding the prescribed standard will be excreted from the body.
It is recommended to divide the daily cost into three meals. For example, 3 mg each for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. To increase bioavailability, the supplement is taken with food, as fatty foods improve the absorption of the substance. The entry standard course is 10 months followed by a 2-3 week break. On the advice of a doctor, the duration of the course can be increased to 4-3 months.
"There is no exception to the rule for athletes taking supplements. Daily rate is divided into 2-3 servings to be consumed throughout the day. Additional intake of substances containing omega-3 fatty acids can increase astaxanthin absorption, so these supplements are often taken together."
Best Astaxanthin Supplements:
Considering the extremely low levels of astaxanthin in the product, it shows that everyone accepts the substance in additive form. Many manufacturers make astaxanthin, so supplement choice depends on packaging, dosage, and cost.
Astaxanthin iHerb - Top 7 Supplements:
Especially for those looking to choose astaxanthin - the best of the best on iHerb, we've prepared an overview of the five most popular supplements that contain this carotenoid.
- California Gold Nutrition Asta Carotenoid . Exclusive astaxanthin from iHerb, available as soft chewable tablets, also contains lutein and lycopene.
- NOW Foods, Astaxanthin, 4 mg, 60 Veggie Softgels. As a dietary supplement, take 1 softgel daily with a meal containing fat.
- Doctor's Best, AstaReal Astaxanthin, 6 mg, 90 Veggie Softgels. Helps maintain skin moisture and elasticity, fights free radical damage and age-related oxidative stress, and supports eye health.
- Solgar, Natural Astaxanthin, 5 mg, 60 Softgels. As a dietary supplement for adults, take one (1) softgel twice daily, preferably with a meal, or as directed by a healthcare practitioner.
- Nutrex Hawaiian BioAstin 12 mg . The Best Astaxanthin from iHerb for Natural Vision, Skin & Tendon Improvement.
- Nutrex Hawaii EyeAstin 60 Capsules . A dietary supplement containing blueberry extract and lutein, in addition to natural antioxidants, to support eye health.
- Sports Research, SUPERBA Boost Antarctic Krill Oil with Astaxanthin, 1,000 mg, 30 Softgels. As a dietary supplement for healthy adults, take 1 Liquid Softgel daily with a meal.
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