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Astaxanthin in Studies: From Eye Health to Lifespan

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Winter is coming, and it's time for an algae tan! Meet astaxanthin. The carotenoid that has been the focus of extensive research over the past 20+ years, and is recognized as one of the most powerful natural antioxidants. It’s shown to be up to 500 times stronger than vitamin E and 6,000 times stronger than vitamin C in neutralizing free radicals! It’s also the natural pigment that gives flamingos and salmon (and humans that consume it) their distinctive pink hue, since they consume algae rich in astaxanthin. Astaxanthin food sources include wild-caught salmon, lobster, shrimp, crab, or the very best source, which is algae. 

Eye Health

Astaxanthin supports vision by reducing eye strain, improving retinal blood flow, and protecting against light-induced damage.

  • Study: Nagaki et al. (2002, Journal of Clinical Therapeutics & Medicine) found that 6 mg/day for 4 weeks significantly reduced eye fatigue in people who regularly used computer screens.

Skin Health

It helps maintain youthful, resilient skin by improving elasticity, hydration, and reducing wrinkles, while also protecting against UV damage.

  • Study: Tominaga et al. (2012, Acta Biochimica Polonica) reported that women taking 6 mg/day for 8 weeks showed noticeable improvements in elasticity and a reduction in fine lines. An additional study showed significant skin improvement for 36 men.

Brain & Cognition

Because it can cross the blood–brain barrier, astaxanthin protects neurons from oxidative stress and is being studied for its role in cognitive decline, Alzheimer’s, and stroke prevention.

  • Study: Katagiri et al. (2012, Journal of Clinical Biochemistry and Nutrition) demonstrated improved memory and cognitive scores in middle-aged adults after 12 weeks of supplementation.

Cardiovascular Health

Astaxanthin promotes heart health by improving lipid profiles, lowering triglycerides, raising HDL cholesterol, and reducing arterial stiffness.

  • Study: Yoshida et al. (2010, Atherosclerosis) found that it lowered oxidative stress biomarkers and improved HDL function.

Immune Support

It enhances the immune system by stimulating antibody production and natural killer (NK) cell activity, while also lowering inflammation.

  • Study: Park et al. (2010, Nutrition & Metabolism) observed stronger immune responses and reduced inflammation in adults taking astaxanthin.

Exercise Performance & Recovery

Astaxanthin can boost endurance and speed recovery by reducing muscle fatigue, lactic acid buildup, and exercise-induced oxidative damage.

  • Study: Aoi et al. (2008, Biological & Pharmaceutical Bulletin) reported that athletes supplementing with astaxanthin experienced less muscle damage after training.

Longevity

A recent study published in Geroscience examined the effects of astaxanthin on lifespan in genetically diverse mice. The researchers found that astaxanthin extended the median male lifespan by 12%.

In another study using a tiny worm called Caenorhabditis elegans (C. elegans), which scientists often use to study aging, astaxanthin was shown to help the worms live longer, stay more active, and reduce signs of aging in their cells. It also protected them from damage caused by harmful molecules called free radicals. Researchers found that astaxanthin works by turning on certain genes that boost the cells’ cleanup and recycling system (a process called autophagy) and turning down genes that normally speed up aging. When these key genes were blocked, the benefits disappeared, showing that astaxanthin helps promote a longer, healthier life by reducing cellular damage and supporting the body’s natural repair processes.