Astaxanthin what is the benefit to the body. Astaxanthin: benefits and harms to the body

To understand the benefits of astaxanthin to the human body, it is necessary to analyze the information about this compound, recognized as the most powerful natural antioxidant.

Description

As a result of research, it has been proven that natural astaxanthin, with its powerful antioxidant properties, helps to level the harmful effects of free radicals on the body. By its nature, this substance is a carotenoid containing oxygen in the chemical formula. This is the reason for the red color of this compound.

Astaxanthin has beneficial effects in preventing cell destruction and death. It also acts as a protective barrier against the negative effects on cells of alcohol, nicotine, unfavorable environmental conditions, ultraviolet rays, and unbalanced nutrition.

Uniqueness

Many well-known antioxidants lose their properties after neutralizing certain types of free radicals. The uniqueness of astaxanthin lies in the long-term retention of activity.

Its next feature is the integration of hydrophobic and hydrophilic qualities. Among natural antioxidants, hydrophobic species are usually found that are not able to dissolve in water. They are active in the cell membrane. And also there are hydrophilic species working in the cytoplasm. Astaxanthin, due to the presence in the molecule of two hydrophilic groups united by a hydrophobic bond, is a universal antioxidant.

Its effectiveness is due to the ability to fight simultaneously with nineteen types of free radicals that have a destructive effect on cells. The action of other antioxidants is based on the simultaneous suppression of no more than one harmful molecule.

Such a feature of astaxanthin is noted as the ability to overcome physiological barriers: hemato-acephalic (between the central nervous and circulatory system) and hemato-retinal (between blood and intraocular fluid). The antioxidant activity of this compound exceeds that of vitamin E by more than 100 times.

Benefits for the body

The benefits of astaxanthin for the human body are multifaceted. This antioxidant has beneficial effects in several key areas:

  • disease prevention by strengthening resistance to a variety of infections;
  • decrease in pressure;
  • normalization of cardiac activity;
  • decrease in cholesterol concentration;
  • activation of the process of formation of red blood cells;
  • elimination of imbalance in gastrointestinal activity;
  • prevention of atherosclerosis;
  • reducing the risk of occurrence and development of malignant neoplasms;
  • suppression of the development of fungal infections;
  • improving liver function;
  • prevention of glaucoma,;
  • regulation of sugar concentration;
  • prevention of prostatitis;
  • supplying the body with energy.

Astaxanthin brings significant benefits to the face, as under its influence, more active collagen production occurs. This helps to restore the elasticity of the skin, smoothing wrinkles. Dryness, foci of inflammation, peeling are eliminated from the skin, protection from harmful ultraviolet rays is provided.

This compound is included in the cream from the Power over Time line. This allows you to additionally moisturize the skin, achieving noticeable rejuvenation. There is a day and night version of this brand's regenerating cream, targeted at aging skin.

Saturating the brain tissue with oxygen, astaxanthin vitamins help to strengthen memory, enhance mental abilities. Taking them, it is possible to maintain normal mental activity until a ripe old age. They help to resist stress, relieve depressive conditions, and improve the quality of sleep.

Astaxanthin is useful for athletes, since it reduces the concentration of lactic acid that accumulates in muscle tissues after intense exertion during training and competition. Thanks to this effect, pain in the muscles is leveled. At the same time, endurance increases, inflammatory manifestations are eliminated, strength increases, energy appears. The joints become more mobile and the muscles stronger.

Astaxanthin is obtained from the microscopic Haematococcus pluvialis algae. Marine organisms that feed on these algae also accumulate this substance. These include planktonic crustaceans - krill, some molluscs, shrimps. There is astaxanthin in the meat of salmonids, as evidenced by the pink coloration of their meat. The human body does not synthesize this useful substance on its own.

On the basis of astaxanthin, biologically active additives are produced, widely known under the abbreviation of dietary supplements. They attract by their ease of use and rather high efficiency. It should be borne in mind that dietary supplements are not a medicine. The effect of taking it is based on improving the quality of vital processes.

When choosing a dietary supplement Astaxanthin, it is recommended to pay attention to its expiration date. This will allow you to purchase a quality product that does not lose its characteristics on average for two years. An antioxidant is placed in the fatty base, which contributes to its complete and rapid absorption.

The composition of Astaxanthin is checked, making sure that the dietary supplement is based on a natural compound, and not on the integration of various vitamins, lutein with catechin. There should be no preservatives among the components. The most optimal concentration of active ingredient in each capsule is four milligrams.

How to use?

The main points are regulated by the instruction for the use of Astaxanthin, which allows you to correctly calculate the dosage and determine the mode of use of a particular type of biological additive.

An example of a drug is the Astin dietary supplement produced by the American company Cyanotech Corporation in capsules. In addition to Haematococcus extract, the structural formula contains oils - and safflower. Take one of these Astaxanthin capsules a day.

In the same way, Bioastin Astaxanthin should be used, each capsule of which contains four to six milligrams of active antioxidant. They consume dietary supplements with meals. Better assimilation is facilitated by the inclusion in the menu of dishes from fat-containing ingredients.

The recommended course is on average three months. Then they take a break from two weeks to two months. By maintaining this alternation, you can take the funds all your life, preventing many serious diseases.

A variety of astaxanthin supplements from numerous Japanese brands such as Seedcoms are accepted in a similar manner. By the way, the Japanese make some of the highest quality dietary supplements in the world, but they are difficult to purchase outside of Japan. But some online stores still offer such a rare product.

In the Bioastin line, varieties of drugs with a specific focus have appeared - for joints,. There are vegetarian capsules. Usually, the results can be felt within a month after starting the antioxidant intake. Sleep is gradually improving, efficiency is increasing. Such manifestations serve as a good motivation to continue taking this amazing natural compound.

Astaxanthin is recommended for children at a dosage similar to that for adults (capsule every 24 hours), starting from the age of 12. When deciding where to buy astaxanthin, it is advisable to contact a pharmacy. Preparations based on this compound are offered in online stores; you can find them in specialized departments of trade establishments.

Contraindications

Despite the fact that astaxanthin contraindications are not clearly indicated, and dietary supplements based on it are considered safe, it is necessary to consult a doctor before taking astaxanthin. Based on the individual characteristics of the body, a specialist can make adjustments to the dosage or duration of use of this compound.

Astaxanthin can be harmful if you are allergic to seafood. It is advised to exercise caution or even avoid taking such a powerful antioxidant for pregnant and lactating women, as well as those with asthma.

Astaxanthin-based drugs must have natural base, since the expected result cannot be obtained from synthetic analogs.

Be healthy!

The preservation of youth and beauty for many years is the dream of many women. Striving to always be in shape and look younger than their years, they closely follow the latest in cosmetology and try to use the newest and most effective means for face and body care. Antioxidants, substances that neutralize the action of free radicals, play an important role in preserving youth. Astaxanthin is recognized as one of the most powerful antioxidants of the 21st century, which is more powerful than vitamins A, C and E. In addition, it has exceptional anti-inflammatory properties.

Astaxanthin and its sources

Astaxanthin is called the king of the family of natural pigments (carotenoids). The highest concentration of this substance is recorded in a microalga called Haematococcus pluvialis. Under normal conditions, the color of microalgae is green, however, when the habitual living conditions of these living organisms change, their cells begin to actively release astaxanthin in large quantities, while the color of the algae begins to change and turns red.

The second source is sea creatures that feed on these algae, namely salmon, lobster, lobster, krill and shellfish. The main indicator of the high content of this substance in the body of fish and molluscs is the reddish color of their meat and shells after heat treatment.

Despite the fact that the term "astaxanthin" is little used in everyday speech, the pigment itself has been present in the diet of many people for decades. Salmon and trout, chum salmon and sockeye, lobster and squid, shrimp and crayfish are products, albeit in small quantities, but present in the diet of a modern person.

Due to its unique structure, astaxanthin molecules allow this substance to protect human body from free radicals, excess leads to the development of many diseases, which are the result of the destruction of cells and DNA molecules.

What does he give a person?

Why is this natural antioxidant useful for humans? Astaxanthin has the following properties and qualities:

  • enhances the effect of vitamins, namely C and E;
  • normalizes work nervous system;
  • weakens inflammatory processes;
  • improves the protection of the central nervous system, eyes and brain from oxidation processes, which can cause the development of a number of diseases;
  • preventive intake of this substance helps to restore memory;
  • increases the elasticity of the skin, improves its color, relieves swelling, eliminates age spots and helps smooth wrinkles. Therefore, it is actively used in the production of caring and medical cosmetics of many companies, including the Oriflame company;
  • improves the functioning of the cardiovascular system, restores vascular tone, reduces the risk of stroke and heart attack.

In addition, astaxanthin actively interacts with muscle tissue, helps relieve pain after physical activity... It protects joints and tendons from damage, increases strength and endurance, and promotes faster tissue repair.

Application in sports

Astaxanthin has been successfully used in professional sports. Regular use of preparations containing this substance is recommended for athletes in order to quickly build muscle mass, as well as to increase strength and endurance. Research carried out over the years has shown that this substance has unique characteristics. The athletes who participated in the testing showed the best results in the tests carried out 7 days after taking the drug.

Application in cosmetology

Astaxanthin is widely used by cosmetics manufacturers such as Oriflame. The antioxidant and regenerating properties of this substance in the composition of cosmetic products, proven in the course of numerous studies and tests, have allowed Oriflame's cosmetologists to develop effective therapeutic, caring and rejuvenating cosmetics, as well as new generation mineral food additives.

Regular intake of Astaxanthin from Oriflame in a dosage of 4 mg will stop the destruction of skin cells and slow down the aging process of the skin. Women who used this drug for 14 days noted that their skin condition improved markedly, fine wrinkles disappeared, the skin tightened and became elastic. The Oriflame company produces this antioxidant both as a separate "Beauty-complex" and as part of the Wellness line of cosmetics, the price of which may vary depending on the type of product. It is noteworthy that there is a male and female version of this drug that meets the needs of both sexes.

Astaxanthin from Oriflame has proven itself well in the fight against acne. People who have problems with oily and combination skin, as well as acne and irritations on it, already on the fifth day of taking the drug, noted an improvement in their condition.

In addition, the company Oriflame widely uses this antioxidant in the production of creams for the area around the eyes, facial skin and products for safe tanning. You can buy the company's products, the price of which is fully justified by the quality of the goods, from the company's official representatives, consultants. But the most convenient way is to register yourself as a consultant of the company, while receiving the opportunity to buy high-quality funds at the lowest price.

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Antioxidants and Free Radicals: What They Are

Free radicals are molecules with one unpaired electron. They have a passionate desire to fill an empty space by taking an electron from another molecule. Therefore, they actively react with the cells of our body, as well as viruses and bacteria. This is why some free radicals are beneficial in fighting infections, activating enzymes, and synthesizing hormones.

Human immunity keeps under control the number of active molecules with empty space for an electron. But when there is no harmony in the lifestyle and diet, and the ecology leaves much to be desired, there are more and more free radicals in our body.

Immunity is failing. Cell membranes are damaged. Voracious radicals interfere deeper and deeper with the function of healthy cells. The body as a whole creates the prerequisites for early aging, inflammation and cancerous tumors.

The lifesavers in this situation are antioxidant compounds that we can get from food or supplements. These helper substances share electrons with insatiable radicals and inhibit cascade oxidation, reducing damage to body cells.

What is Astaxanthin

Gift of the sea. It was first isolated from lobster meat in 1938. Later they found in the pulp of salmon fish, including chum salmon and trout. The substance gives the fish a red-orange color.

Carotenoids are only one of three classes of antioxidants, along with allyl sulfides (onions, garlic) and (blueberries, olive oil, cocoa beans, green tea and other medicinal products).

Our superhero belongs to carotenoids, of which there are more than 700 compounds. They are produced by plants and accumulated by animals for protection from solar ultraviolet radiation. The most popular are beta-carotene (or provitamin A) and zeaxanthin with lutein in eye health supplements.

much more powerful than beta-carotene, since its molecule on each of the six-membered rings has 2 additional oxygen atoms. This gives the substance a deep red color and makes it unique. beneficial features for the human body.

Our hero has no analogues not only among carotenoids, but also among all antioxidants.

What is useful for the human body

According to modern research, astaxanthin overtakes all known antioxidants in terms of the strength of the effect. The score of effectiveness is amazing!

  • It is 500 times more powerful than the catechins that made green tea famous.
  • 550 times stronger than vitamin E, which is one of the top 3 antioxidant vitamins.
  • 800 times more powerful than CoQ10 - the famous ubiquinone, which has been gracing medical reviews for three decades.
  • 6,000 times stronger than vitamin C - the second obligatory member of the vitamin trinity of antioxidants.

What are the benefits of astaxanthin to the human body?

Beautiful skin that does not age for a long time.

The substance accumulates in the skin, protecting against UV damage. Along the way, we get hydration due to the retention of moisture in the cells, smoothing out fine wrinkles and the absence of age spots. ()

Stabilizes harmonious immunity.

Fights enemies, but inhibits autoimmune reactions when immune cells lose focus and begin to attack the body's own tissues. Suppresses fungal flora. Stimulates the production of high-quality lymphocytes with high activity.

Protection against oncology at the level of cellular DNA.

Calculates and suppresses uncontrolled cell division. It inhibits the synthesis of a certain protein during tumor growth.

Increases energy and stamina.

Exercise is a direct provocateur of oxidative stress. Studies in athletes on post-workout free radical concentrations with and without astaxanthin provide evidence of the benefits of the supplement.

Reduces the risk of senile dementia and enhances concentration in ADHD in children and adults.

These functions are possible thanks to the ability of our hero to penetrate the blood-brain barrier and increase the production of glutathione in the brain tissue. It is a key antioxidant for nerve cells. ()

Improves the work of mitochondria for the synthesis of energy in all cells of the body.

The result is an increase in vitality, vigor and a ticket to active longevity.

How does it differ from other antioxidants?

  • Potential of others nutrients- 1 free radical at a time. Astaxanthin suppresses aggression as many as 19 molecules!
  • It remains active longer than other compounds, and can also be incorporated in the role of an adhesion into the damaged cell membrane. The uniqueness of our hero is constantly confirmed by research. Prolongation of youth, beauty and life: he is capable of this, like no other of his colleagues in the workshop.

Where it is in food and how to use it

Natural sources - any red fish, crabs, shrimps.

It is curious how a lot of astaxanthin accumulated in these waterfowl. It all starts with algae, which the inhabitants of the seas feed on.

Most Astaxanthin (Astaxanthin) is found in Haematococcus pluvialis (hematocoxus). This is a type of algae. They are eaten by seafood (such as krill), which becomes food for predatory red fish. So the chain closes in our favor.


And yet there are important "buts!"

  1. Farmed red fish are far from the natural ideal. This applies not only to essential vitamins and minerals, but also to such valuable antioxidants as our hero.
  2. Moreover, . This limits our buying choices if we are aiming for food without direct harm.

Therefore, the question arises of how to obtain a sufficient protective biocompound from food additives.

Where to buy and how to take

How much and how to take Astaxanthin?

  • Daily, depending on the level of health - from 4 to 8 mg.
  • Taking for a long time is useful for all people over 30 years of age.
  • And also for those who have chronic diseases, primarily of the nervous system, skin, liver, joints, immunity. The therapeutic dose reaches 10-15 mg per day.

Supplements can be purchased over the counter or online at varying prices. We are using the giant iherb.

What to look for when choosing Astaxanthin?

  1. Choose only those dietary supplements, in the production of which natural raw materials are used - Haematococcus pluvialis algae.
  2. Pay attention to the composition of the capsule. Our hero is well absorbed only in the presence of fat. The supplement most often contains oil. It is better that it was, and not sunflower.
  3. Never take a synthetic analogue that is made from petroleum products.

Good choice "price / quality":

According to doctors, for prophylactic intake, a healthy person needs 1 capsule 2 times a day with meals.

  • Now Foods, Astaxanthin, Extra Strength, 10 mg, 60 Softgels

This is another supplement option from a reputable brand that is convenient to take in a therapeutic dosage. 1 capsule contains 10 mg.

Possible harm and contraindications

The antioxidant is poorly understood in pregnancy. It should not be taken while expecting a baby or while breastfeeding.

People with hypertension who take drugs to lower blood pressure should be careful about dietary supplements. It enhances the effect of medications and by itself is capable of slightly lowering blood pressure.

If you take the drug in a sunny summer in an increased dose, the risk of excessive skin pigmentation increases.

We cannot rule out all the factors that trigger dangerous levels of oxidative stress from life. Nutritional imperfections cause constant damage when we are led by our appetite. Often we are against the quality of products that have become worse due to cheap and mass technologies. And the whole environment, especially in big cities, is harmful to health.

I am glad that there is a choice - to keep free radicals under control and stay healthy longer thanks to a competent diet. It is not always possible to manage wellness nutrition without additives - for example, regular courses for chronic ailments or during an acute illness.

Now you have learned the details about another powerful substance, astaxanthin. What is it and what is the benefit to the human body, where it is contained, in what dose and nutritional supplement can be taken - we have answered the main questions. If anything remains unclear, comments are open. Study the important things and be healthy!

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Today I'm going to talk about an amazing substance: astaxanthin. It is a pigment (a natural coloring matter) that produces the red and pink tints of the feathers of flamingos, salmon fish, crabs, shrimps and some plants. In addition, astaxanthin is an example of a deep systemic connection of all living things, because algae produce astaxanthin, then crustaceans eat them, fish eat crustaceans, we eat fish. This is the hard way this substance does. Astaxanthin is one of the strongest natural antioxidants. Although it is not irreplaceable (like lutein, for example), you can pay attention to it. And also we will learn about flamingos pink and that red snow should not be afraid.



Astaxanthin (3,3 "-dihydroxy-beta, beta-carotene-4,4" -dione) is a carotenoid pigment related to xanthophylls, which is widespread in nature. It is he who owes the yellow, orange, red pigmentation of crustaceans, red fish, egg yolks and plumage of birds. Animals, however, do not synthesize this pigment, accumulating it in tissues when they eat various lower organisms, in particular phytoplankton. Currently, an increasing part of salmon fish and crustaceans is produced by artificial breeding and astaxanthin is one of the most expensive components of their diet. The increased content of natural astaxanthin in the muscles protects them from oxidation, as a result of which salmon are able to do what it is simply impossible to believe, to make many kilometers of swimming. Astaxanthin can be found in any pinkish or reddish marine life.

Astaxanthin is the king of the carotenoid family. If you compare it to beta-carotene, you can see that it has two extra oxygen atoms on each of the rings, which gives it a deep red color and makes it an elite of xanthophylls. These additional functional groups increase the antioxidant properties of astaxanthin and give it unique properties not found in any other carotenoid. Astaxanthin also has the ability to stabilize cells by acting as a rivet between membranes.



Carotenoids determine the formation of a wide range of colors of living things in nature, for example, fruits, vegetables and plant leaves owe their bright yellow and red colors to carotenoids. Plants and algae need carotenoids for photosynthesis, just like chlorophyll and other light-absorbing pigments. Although some animals are capable of converting carotenoids into other forms, they must still receive them from their nutritious diet. For example, pink flamingos filters Spirulina and other algae and converts their yellow pigments - beta-carotene and zeaxanthin into pinkish-red carotenoids - astaxanthin and canthaxanthin, which then accumulate in the plumage, giving it such delicious color. Many species of birds, fish, crustaceans and insects are colored with carotenoids obtained from food.

People also use to their advantage the wide possibilities of carotenoids. Here are just a couple of examples: beta-carotene is converted to vitamin A, lutein and zeaxanthin protect the macular region of the retina from ultraviolet damage. Carotenoids determine the formation of a wide range of colors of living things in nature, for example, fruits, vegetables and plant leaves owe their bright yellow and red colors to carotenoids. Plants and algae need carotenoids for photosynthesis, just like chlorophyll and other light-absorbing pigments.



In addition, astaxanthin is linked to another unique natural phenomenon: red snow. Red snow is a phenomenon observed high in the mountains and in the polar regions of the Earth. The unusual reddish or pink color of the snow is due to the massive reproduction of one of the species of Chlamydomonas nivalis algae. In addition to the green pigment chlorophyll, the cells of this alga contain the red carotenoid astaxanthin. Unlike many freshwater algae species, Chlamydomonas nivalis prefers cold environmental conditions and thrives in temperatures below freezing.

Natural sources of astaxanthin.

The main sources of astaxanthin are:

1. Seaweed.

2. Krill, shrimp, crabs, etc. Discover new foods: krill oil and krill meat.

3. Salmon. My preference: pink salmon.
Pink salmon, although a little dry, is not raised on the farm with compound feed, like ordinary salmon, but is a commercial fish. Affordable, environmentally friendly, useful.

4. Petals of the summer Adonis flower.
5. Supplements with natural astaxanthin.



Have you ever wondered why the trout is red on the inside? Because it feeds on small seafood (krill), which in turn eats algae rich in this antioxidant pigment. And the pinkish color of shrimp and other marine life is also a merit of this unique antioxidant. By the way, flamingos also get their delicate pink hue from a diet rich in Astaxanthin. Such is the natural natural food chain.

The microalgae Haematococcus is the richest source of astaxanthin. In Hawaii, it can be found in small bodies of water with fresh water. In good conditions, the algae is green in color and constantly moves in search of accumulations nutrients.

When nutrients are depleted, cells begin to enter a dormant phase and produce massive amounts of astaxanthin to protect against UV light and oxidation. When the cells are finally encystised, they may contain between 1.5 and 4% (15,000-40,000 ppm) astaxanthin by weight. Encystic cells can remain dormant for many years until the right conditions arise and the cells become mobile and green again. The alga got its name from the ancient Greek word meaning "blood seed" (heme and coccus).

Another source of astaxanthin is the yeast, Phaffia, which can sometimes be seen growing on the bark of certain trees. But compare, natural Phaffia yeast contains 200-400 ppm astaxanthin. Genetically modified lines for commercial use can contain up to 8000 ppm, but this is far less than the astaxanthin content of natural Haematococcus microalgae lines.

The most a large number of Astaxanthin (Astaxanthin) is naturally found in the algae Haematococcus pluvialis. Astaxanthin is found in yeast, salmon, salmon, trout, shrimp, crayfish and some bird feathers. Astaxanthin, unlike other carotenoids, is not converted to vitamin A (retinol) in the body. Excess vitamin A is toxic, but astaxanthin is not. It is also a powerful antioxidant, 10 times more active than other carotenoids.


In addition to fish of the salmon family, the microalga Haematococcus (Hematococcus) is used as a source of astaxanthin. After encystation (the formation of a hard shell with a lack of nutrients) of the cells of this organism, the concentration of astaxanthin in it rises to several percent. Another source is Phafia yeast, which grows on the bark of trees. Natural yeast contains about 200-400 mg / kg of astaxanthin, in genetically modified this figure reaches 8000.


A study by the US Food and Drug Administration found that, on average, one fish contains a few milligrams of astaxanthin per kilogram of meat. Another source may be krill oil, which contains on the order of 1200 mg / kg astaxanthin. Its disadvantages are its specific smell and low availability; krill meat can also be used.

Krill oil (or krill oil) is derived from the Antarctic krill Euphausia superba. Krill oil contains three important components: (1) omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids, which are identical to those found in fish oil, (2) omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids in the form of phospholipids (phosphatidylcholine) (otherwise called marine lecithin) and (3) astaxanthin as an antioxidant. The krill product first gained popularity in Japan. The inhabitants of this country nicknamed him "Okiami", which means "luxurious delicacy". Since the early 19th century, krill oil has been consumed in other Asian countries as well. In Korea, China and Taiwan, no one doubted that the small translucent shrimp is a source of health and longevity.

View

Mean

Coho

30-58 mg / kg

40.4 mg / kg

Red salmon

9-28 mg / kg

13.8 mg / kg

Pink salmon

3-7 mg / kg

5.4 mg / kg

Chum

1-8 mg / kg

5.6 mg / kg

Chinook Royal Salmon

1-22 mg / kg

8.9 mg / kg

Atlantic salmon

5-7 mg / kg

5.3 mg / kg

A source

Astaxanthin concentration (ppm)

Salmon

Plankton

~ 60

Krill

~ 120

Shrimp (P borealis)

~ 1,200

Phaffia yeast

~ 10,000

Haematococcus pluvialis

~ 40,000



Summer adonis (Adonis aestivalis L.) is an annual plant of the Ranunculaceae family, growing wild and cultivated. This kind, cultivated as a floral annual, due to its high petal content of astaxanthin, one of the most active antioxidants. Lacking provitamin (A) activity, astaxanthin is a powerful antioxidant

The relevance of the study of the content of astaxanthin in the petals of A. aestivalis and the development of methods for its cultivation lies in the fact that it is the only representative of land plants, the bright red color of flowers of which is due to the accumulation of this antioxidant in the petals. Flowers of A. aestivalis accumulate 400 + 50 μg of astaxanthin in the summer months, 6.585% content in adonis.

Astaxanthin: medicinal properties.

In addition to fish farming, poultry farming, astaxanthin is used in the perfumery and food industries and is promising for medical purposes. It has been shown to be one of the most powerful antioxidants and prevents the development of cancer and a number of other diseases.

At the cellular level, it is not possible for an ordinary person to track the effect of this substance, but scientists have substantiated that the constant use of astaxanthin has a positive effect in the treatment of various eye diseases, improves the functioning of the cardiovascular system and prevents the formation of blood clots, provokes brain activity, strengthens the nervous system and immunity , provokes cell regeneration, helping to improve the condition of the skin. But, for sure, the most essential qualities of this substance are to slow down the aging process and increase endurance. Due to its unique structure, astaxanthin protects the cell membranes of all organs. Unlike beta-carotene, vitamin C and other antioxidants, which are either inside or outside the bilipid membrane, astaxanthin molecules have the unique ability to reside both inside and outside the bilipid membrane. This provides additional all-round cell protection.

Astaxanthin Benefits:

1. 550 times stronger than vitamin E (α-tocopherol)
2. 40 times stronger than beta-carotene
3. 17 times more powerful than grape seed extract
4. Interferes with the expression of NF genes (interferes with inflammation)
5. Inhibits the processes of DNA destruction (8-OHdG)
6. Perfectly protects lipid peroxidases
7. More resistant to free radicals
8. Strengthens the immune response
9. An effective anti-inflammatory agent

Ultimate Synergistic Defense:


Astaxanthin in combination with lycopene shows higher oxidase resistance than lycopene, lutein and astaxanthin alone
Various increases in oxidase resistance appear when combined with lipoic acids, resveratrol, ergotrionein, ascorbic acid, ginseng, garlic, gingo biloba.
Test tests have shown the best antioxidant properties when combined with tocotrienol.

The largest amount of Astaxanthin in nature is found in the algae Haematococcus pluvialis.




Astaxanthin and skin.

Particular attention is paid to the properties of astaxanthin to protect the skin from damage. In this, its properties are in many respects unique. Astaxanthin plays an important role when it comes to keeping skin looking healthy and fresh. Unhealthy diet that does not provide the body with enough antioxidants, vitamins and minerals, as well as environmental pollution, smoking and UV rays cause the skin to look dull and uneven. Astaxanthin protects the skin and promotes its regeneration, including after sun exposure. Since it neutralizes free radicals that destroy skin cells, and protects against UVA and UBV rays.

UVB rays are shorter than UVA rays. They mainly affect the outer layer of the skin, create a tan and promote the production of melanin. UVA rays penetrate much deeper and are stronger. They destroy collagen fibers, thus promoting the formation of wrinkles. Astaxanthin neutralizes free radicals caused by UV radiation and thus protects and promotes the regeneration of collagen fibers. Likewise, Astaxanthin allows the entire skin to regenerate. Research shows that astaxanthin evens out wrinkles and increases skin elasticity.

Protection of the central nervous system and eyes

Many studies have shown that carotenoids are essential for eye health, and they also help prevent oxidation of the retina. Macular macula is a small area in the center of the retina, approximately two millimeters in diameter, behind the crystalline of the eye. Interestingly, only great apes such as monkeys and humans have such a spot. Accumulating the destruction of oxidation, this leads to degenerative changes, which are noticeable in the aging spot. The carotenoids, in the macula, act wonderfully as antioxidants. Unlike beta-carotene, Astaxanthin is able to cross the blood-brain barrier and protect the retina from photooxidation and loss of photoreceptor cells. The brain, back, and nerves also contain relatively large amounts of unsaturated fatty acids. Their relatively high metabolic activity and oxygen demand expose them to oxidative stress. With its unique ability to cross the blood-brain barrier, Astaxanthin may provide additional protection against oxidation in the brain, spinal cord, and nervous system.

Usage.

The industry uses both natural (over $ 7,000 per kilogram) and synthetic astaxanthin (about $ 2,000 per kilogram). For fish feed, make dietary supplements. Astaxanthin (Astaxanthin, astazanthin, E161j) is a yellow dye. It is used incl. and by aquarists to brighten up the color of aquarium fish, and is also used by fish farmers to give the meat of cheaper fish species a more "noble" color. Also, it is used in the production of feed for "farm" fish. Moreover, feed manufacturers are more likely to admit to using astaxanthin than farmers. Natural astaxanthin is much more active than synthetic astaxanthin, since the latter is a mixture of stereo measurements.

In principle, a dose of 4-12 mg / day is sufficient for astaxanthin to act. Remember, you can do more because astaxanthin builds up in the body. Unlike some carotenoids, astaxanthin is not converted to vitamin A in the human body. An overdose of vitamin A can be hazardous to health, but it does not happen with astaxanthin.

The main source of nutritional supplements is the Haematococcus pluvialis algae. So, if you decide to buy it for yourself, make sure that yours was obtained from a natural source, and not a synthetic one, which, of course, costs several times cheaper.


Astaxanthin: Research.

In Sweden, a double-blind study was conducted in which 40 healthy students were divided into two groups for a series of physiological studies, with one group supplemented with astaxanthin from the Haematococcus microalgae and the other not. After six months, there were significant differences in strength and endurance in squats and dumbbell exercises between groups. The placebo group averaged only 35% of the results for the astaxanthin-fed group.

Experimental results with astaxanthin show that it is able to supplement the antioxidant systems of cells and help reduce damage. The addition of astaxanthin to cell culture is superior to UV-induced oxidative stress, better than lutein or beta-carotene.

Cell cultures in a medium with various concentrations of carotenoids were exposed to ultraviolet radiation for many hours, after which the amount of stress indicators - active forms of thiobarbituric acid (ATPBA) - was measured. In the absence of carotenoids in the medium, the activity of catalase and superoxide dismutase in cells after irradiation was strongly suppressed, and the amount of thiobarbiturates increased significantly. However, the addition of carotenoids to the medium significantly protected the enzymes.

Astaxanthin was 20 times more effective than lutein in protecting cells from UV-induced suppression of catalase activity, and 200 times more effective than beta-carotene. It is also 100 times more effective than lutein, and 1000 times more effective than beta-carotene, it reduced the amount of TBCAF. Researchers believe that carotenoids other than beta-carotene, and in particular astaxanthin, are key molecules that protect cells from UV damage. Other research suggests that astaxanthin specifically targets transglutaminase enzymes that help detoxify harmful polyamines from skin irradiation.

Conclusion.

Include seafood rich in astaxanthin in your diet. In addition, usually these same products contain a lot of omega-3 fatty acids, iodine and other trace elements, high-quality protein. Try new foods like krill and pink salmon. And without fanaticism: Astaxanthin is not an irreplaceable substance, we can do without it. It is acceptable to substitute for astaxanthin and other antioxidants.

As a preventive and auxiliary agent, it has been around for about 20 years. But until now, all aspects of the effect of this substance on the human body have not been fully studied. This article will help you learn about the possible benefits and dangers of such astaxanthin-containing drugs.

Benefits of Astaxanthin

Hundreds of academic scientific works are devoted to the phenomenon of the benefits of the considered super-effective antioxidant, which reasonably prove its positive effect on humans, namely:

"Astaxanthin has a multifaceted healing and prophylactic effect on the body."

  • Astaxanthin is one of the best natural remedies for combating oxidative stress in cells. He helps slow down natural and premature aging due to smoking and excess weight.
  • Due to its antioxidant effect, natural microalgae extract can serve for the prevention of malignant tumors... In particular, it has been researched (google translate) its positive effects in the treatment of breast cancer.
  • Internal and external use of astaxanthin allows to fight with age wrinkles and age spots, and moisturizes the skin.
  • Some experiments (google translate) on laboratory mice have revealed the ability of a drug based on Haematococcus pluvialis to accelerate the breakdown of fatty acids, thereby increasing the overall endurance of the human body.
  • Astaxanthin has many beneficial effects on the cardiovascular system. He is capable lower blood cholesterol levels thereby fighting high blood pressure and preventing various heart diseases.
  • Several researchers claim Astaxanthin's health benefits for joints, particularly those affected by rheumatoid arthritis. But such hypotheses require more careful testing.
  • A 2005 experiment (google translate) on 30 volunteers showed that increased doses of the red carotenoid can lead to an increase in the number and motility of sperm, which normalizes male reproductive function.
  • Due to its rare ability among carotenoids to cross the blood-brain barrier, astaxanthin is a good tool for the prevention of age-related diseases of the brain and eyes (cataracts, Alzheimer's disease, etc.).
  • Dietary supplements based on the substance in question can reduce the bacterial population H. pylori, which in most cases is the main reason for the development ulcers, as well as duodenitis, gastritis and even stomach cancer.

There are numerous confirmations of other positive properties of astaxanthin, a systematic list (google translate) of which can be found, for example, on the authoritative resource Examine.com.

Can Astaxanthin Be Harmful?

There is no evidence or research to suggest long-term harm to the antioxidant from microalgae extract. At the same time, a number of experiments on volunteers showed that a single or short-term intake (up to 2 weeks) of high doses of astaxanthin (20-50 mg) does not lead to any negative health effects... However, due to the specificity of the action of the substance, in some cases it can cause a number of non-critical side effects:

"Possible side effects Astaxanthin does not pose a major health hazard "

  • Allergic intolerance to astaxanthin or other carotenoids.
  • A slight drop in blood pressure or blood sugar (when combined with supplements or drugs to lower blood pressure or sugar).
  • Increased skin pigmentation.
  • Increased hair growth rate (including on the body).
  • Minor changes in hormonal balance (when combined with hormonal drugs).
  • A slight decrease in calcium in the blood.
  • Decreased sex drive.

Despite the fact that in general