Astaxanthin
Astaxanthin is a carotenoid that is similar to beta-carotene, but not close enough to be a vitamin A precursor like beta carotene. Astaxanthin is produced by microscopice algae, which in turn are eaten by crustaceans and fish in the oceans. Seafood with a red colour such as lobster, crabs and fish with a pink coloring like salmon get their pigmentation from astaxanthins. Flamingos also get their pink color from this phytonutrient. Along with several other carotenoids, astaxanthin is also classified as a xanthophyll. This is a group of compounds with yellow pigments, whose name actually means yellow leaves. In fact, leaves containing xanthophyll pigments do turn yellow in the fall.
Astaxanthin is a powerful antioxidant. We are constantly exposed to oxidative stress from pollution, tobacco smoke, UV light, chemicals in food and other products, and radiation. Also the normal aerobic metabolism of the body creates free radicals which are trying to scavenge electrons, and may damage cells in the process. One of the bodies defenses against these free radicals is the antioxidants in the foods that we eat, especially some of the vitamins like A, C and E. Although Astaxanthin is different in structure so that it doesn't have the same properties as vitamin A, it actually is a more powerful antioxidant.
Astaxanthin affects T cells to increase the number of antibodies, thus boosting the immune system. A Japanese study done in 1995 showed that astaxanthin enhanced the immune system by increasing production of immunoglobulin. In this study, astaxanthin outshone the other carotenoids. Astaxanthin may also be useful for treating people with autoimmune or inflammatory conditions. This phytonutrient is used to treat some neurodegenerative diseases such as Parkinsons and Alzheimers. It can protect eyes and skin from sun radiation. There is already a wide body of research for this phytonutrient.
Astaxanthin has a very strong inhibitory effect on cancer. Studies in mice have shown that this phytonutrient inhibited cancer of the urinary bladder, oral carcinogenesis and colon cancer.
Astaxanthin for commercial use may be produced by a yeast named Xanthophyllomyces dendrorhous, or from the micro algae Haematococcus pluvialis. It would be difficult to eat as much fish as you would need to get large doses of astaxanthin, however you can also buy it as a supplement. Studies on humans have not shown any ill effects from taking large doses of astaxanthin. However if you are pregnant or breastfeeding, or have a particular health condition, it is always good to check with your doctor before adding any supplements to your diet.
The information on this page is not meant to be used in treatment of medical conditions. Please seek the advice of a physician about any medical condition or symptom. Those with medical conditions should consult a medical professional about the appropriateness of taking dietary supplements or diet therapy, and how these methods will interact with their medications.
Astaxanthin Information Site