Important Astaxanthin Benefits You Need To Know

By Douglas Edwards


Astaxanthin is a type of pigment belonging to the carotenoids group of nutrients. It has a number of sources that include, among others, microalgae, salmon, trout, yeast and shrimp among others. It gives a characteristic red colour to each of these organisms. A commercially available form can be used in a number of ways. We will explore some of the major astaxanthin benefits that have made the supplement quite popular.

Cells are continuously subjected to damage by what are referred to as reactive oxygen species. These are highly reactive electrons that are generated from normal metabolic reactions or due to harmful external stimuli. The cells have a mechanism of removing these electrons but the mechanism involved is at times overwhelmed. Astaxanthin, alongside other carotenoids has been shown to assist in this process.

Because of the antioxidant properties, astaxanthins also have a benefit in cancer prevention. Cancer is the result of cell mutation of which oxidative damage is a major cause. Another mechanism that may contribute to this benefit is the fact that it supports the immune system. One of the cancers likely to benefit in the near future is some types of breast cancer.

Various musculoskeletal problems are said to show a positive response in symptoms. Those that feature most prominently include rheumatoid arthritis and the carpal tunnel syndrome. There is a need to combine it with other forms of treatment such as pain relieving g medication and physiotherapy so as to get maximal benefits. Studies on how well the supplements work in managing arthritis are still in progress.

The treatment of male infertility appears to be another area likely to generate a lot interest. One of the most important studies as far as this indication is concerned was carried out in 2005. A total of 30 subjects were involved. After a few weeks of therapy, the number and quality of sperm cells greatly improved. It is important to have follow up studies to confirm or refute these findings since the initial number was rather small.

Reduction of total cholesterol is another major benefit of astaxanthin. Other related desirable effects include increased HDL cholesterol and a reduction in LDL cholesterol. All these serve to reduce the risk of conditions such as atherosclerosis, heart attack and stroke. There is also a direct reduction of blood pressure which serves to further reduce the risk of these conditions.

Users have reported some improvements in skin appearance. More specifically, there is a reduction in the prominence of wrinkles and coarse lines. The amount of moisture is also increased significantly. Apart from the oral formulations, there are a number of creams available for the same use. Another major benefit is the correction of defects caused by sunburn.

Another important indication is in the improvement of vision for persons suffering from a condition known as age related macular degeneration. This is a visual impairment condition characterized by progressive damage to the cells of the retina responsible for both central and peripheral vision. It has been shown that the supplement may indeed help I restoring some of these cells and improve vision in the process.




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