Astaxanthin – a powerful protector of our cells

Have you ever wondered why salmon, or the shells of some crustaceans, have a distinctive reddish-pink color? The answer lies in one of the most potent antioxidants – astaxanthin. Astaxanthin is a red xanthophyll carotenoid. It can be found in many natural sources such as algae, salmon, shrimp, trout, and krill, with one of the richest sources being a freshwater green alga called Haematococcus pluvialis. This powerful carotenoid is attracting increasing attention today due to its many benefits and is commercially available in various dietary supplement forms.

The key to its action lies in its chemical structure

Numerous studies indicate that the antioxidant activity of astaxanthin is much higher than that of other carotenoids due to its unique chemical characteristics. What sets it apart from other antioxidants is its ability to protect the cell membrane from both the inside and outside. Our cell membranes are highly sensitive to the damaging effects of free radicals and oxidative damage. Astaxanthin, as an antioxidant, protects cell membranes from such harmful compounds by directly binding them and forming non-reactive products. Additionally, thanks to the presence of multiple conjugated bonds in its central non-polar region, astaxanthin removes free radicals from inside the cell, allowing other antioxidants located outside the cell membrane to neutralize them. This carotenoid can also take a transmembrane position in biological membranes, which supports the membrane’s structure and ensures its protection.

Astaxanthin has many applications

Astaxanthin has gained popularity due to its various biological effects, which include potential antitumor, antidiabetic, anti-inflammatory, and immune-stimulating properties, as well as protective effects on the nervous, cardiovascular, ocular, and skin systems. Some of the highlighted potential benefits include:

Skin: Astaxanthin supplementation has shown positive effects on skin aging by improving skin elasticity, reducing wrinkle formation, and helping maintain the integrity of the epidermal barrier. It may also reduce the harmful effects of UV radiation.

Eye health: Some studies emphasize astaxanthin’s potential in maintaining eye health by improving outcomes of various ocular diseases such as glaucoma and cataracts. Certain studies have shown that astaxanthin can improve visual acuity and positively affect symptoms such as blurred vision.

Cardiovascular system: Some studies suggest that astaxanthin could suppress the oxidation of the so-called “bad” LDL cholesterol.

Anti-inflammatory properties: Astaxanthin modulates the NF-κB signaling pathway and reduces the expression of genes for pro-inflammatory cytokines.

The recommended dosage of astaxanthin, according to EFSA, is 0.034 mg per kilogram of body weight. The usual daily dosage ranges from 4 to 12 mg, depending on the desired effect. Since it is fat-soluble, it is recommended to take it with food containing omega-3 fatty acids.

A pigment worth the attention

Astaxanthin is undoubtedly one of the most potent antioxidants, whose anti-inflammatory properties provide strong support to our health. Thanks to its unique structure, it is increasingly recognized as a valuable dietary supplement. Although further clinical studies are needed to confirm its benefits, current results suggest that astaxanthin has significant potential.

                                                                                                                                                                                                  Translated by: Josip Kokanović