Astaxanthin

Snapshot

A powerful red carotenoid pigment found in microalgae and seafood, astaxanthin is a potent antioxidant that supports eye, skin, brain, and heart health.

 

What It Is

Astaxanthin is a naturally occurring xanthophyll carotenoid responsible for the reddish color of salmon, shrimp, lobster, and krill. Unlike beta-carotene or vitamin A, astaxanthin does not convert to retinol in the body but instead functions as a unique antioxidant.

Where It Comes From

The richest natural source is the microalga Haematococcus pluvialis, which accumulates astaxanthin in high amounts under stress conditions. Commercial supplements are typically derived from this algae or from krill oil.

Key Nutrients & Compounds

Astaxanthin is a fat-soluble antioxidant carotenoid with a unique molecular structure allowing it to span cell membranes. This gives it both water- and lipid-phase activity, protecting cells against oxidative damage.

Health Benefits

  • Eye Health – Supports visual acuity, reduces eye strain, and protects against oxidative stress in the retina.
  • Skin Protection – Helps reduce UV-induced skin damage and supports elasticity and hydration.
  • Brain Support – Crosses the blood–brain barrier to support cognitive function and protect neurons.
  • Cardiovascular Health – May improve blood lipid balance and support healthy circulation.
  • Exercise Recovery – Shown to reduce oxidative stress and muscle fatigue after strenuous activity.

Recommended Dosage

Typical supplemental dosages range from 4–12 mg per day. Clinical studies often use 6–8 mg daily for eye, skin, and antioxidant support. Always take with fat-containing meals for best absorption.

How To Use It

Available as softgels or in krill oil formulations. Pair with meals containing healthy fats to enhance bioavailability. Consistent use is recommended for cumulative benefits.

Who Should Use It

Individuals concerned with eye strain from screens, athletes seeking recovery support, adults looking for skin health or anti-aging benefits, and those aiming to bolster overall antioxidant defense.

Possible Interactions or Cautions

Astaxanthin is generally safe and well tolerated. At very high doses, it may cause skin to take on a slight orange tint. May interact with blood pressure–lowering or cholesterol-lowering medications. Pregnant or nursing women should consult a healthcare provider before use.

Final Thoughts

Astaxanthin stands out as one of nature’s most potent antioxidants, offering wide-reaching benefits from eye and skin health to exercise recovery. With strong safety data and growing scientific support, it’s a valuable addition to modern supplementation.

Scientific Studies

Yoshida H, Yanai H, Ito K, et al. Administration of natural astaxanthin increases serum HDL-cholesterol and adiponectin in subjects with mild hyperlipidemia. Atherosclerosis. 2010.
http://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/20040176

Nakagawa K, Kiko T, Miyazawa T, et al. Antioxidant effect of astaxanthin on phospholipid peroxidation in human erythrocytes. Br J Nutr. 2011.
http://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/21144081

Nagaki Y, Hayasaka S, Yamada T, et al. Effects of astaxanthin on accommodation, critical flicker fusion, and pattern visual evoked potential in visual display terminal workers. J Clin Ther Med. 2002.
http://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/12025949