Astaxanthin: Benefits, Dosage, Side Effects, Drug Interactions, and Other Important Information

A number of marine species and some plants naturally contain astaxanthin. Astaxanthin is a carotenoid pigment with strong antioxidant effects. It has grown in popularity as a nutritional supplement in recent years due to its possible health advantages, such as its capacity to improve cognitive function, maintain eye health, and guard against oxidative stress. The nature of astaxanthin, its chemistry, health advantages, recommended dosage, potential negative effects, drug interactions, and responsible use recommendations are all covered in this article.

You May Also Like:

Quercetin: Benefits, Dosage, Side Effects, Drug Interactions, and Other Important Information

Gotu Kola (Centella asiatica): Benefits, Dosage, Side Effects, Drug Interactions, And Other Important Information

Nature of Astaxanthin

Astaxanthin is a natural xanthophyll carotenoid that gives a variety of marine creatures, including salmon, shrimp, krill, and microalgae (particularly Haematococcus pluvialis) its reddish-orange hue. Several plants, including red peppers and certain algae, also exhibit it. Astaxanthin is a vital antioxidant for many species, shielding them from oxidative damage, hence its existence in the food chain is crucial.

Health Benefits of Astaxanthin

1. Improved cognitive performance: Enhancement in cognitive performance may be a result of astaxanthin’s antioxidant and anti-inflammatory characteristics, which shield neurons from oxidative damage, lessen inflammation, and encourage synaptic plasticity. According to studies, using astaxanthin supplements can enhance memory, learning, and focus in both people and animals.
2. Eye health: Astaxanthin can shield the retina from oxidative damage and inflammation, which lowers the risk of age-related macular degeneration, cataracts, and other eye problems. This property makes it particularly relevant for eye health.
3. Cardiovascular wellness: It has been demonstrated that astaxanthin lowers oxidative stress and inflammation in the cardiovascular system, improving blood flow, lowering blood pressure, and lowering the risk of atherosclerosis.
4. Support for the immune system: Astaxanthin’s anti-inflammatory properties can alter immunological reactions, improving the body’s capacity to fend off infections and lowering the risk of chronic inflammation-related disorders.
5. Skin health: Astaxanthin has antioxidant qualities that can guard the skin against oxidative damage brought on by exposure to ultraviolet (UV) radiation, lowering the risk of skin cancer, photoaging, and sunburn. Moreover, it might enhance the suppleness, hydration, and general appearance of the skin.
6. Exercise performance and recovery: It has been demonstrated that astaxanthin improves physical performance by lowering oxidative stress and inflammation in muscles, enhancing endurance, and accelerating recovery following exercise.

Chemistry of Astaxanthin

Astaxanthin is made up of long conjugated carbon chains with alternate single and double bonds, as well as terminal ring structures containing oxygen and hydroxyl groups. This distinctive structure gives the molecule the ability to effectively quench free radicals and neutralize reactive oxygen species, which gives it strong antioxidant characteristics (ROS). Moreover, Astaxanthin can create esterified derivatives with fatty acids thanks to the presence of hydroxyl groups, which can affect its bioavailability and biological activity.

Physiological Mechanism of Action of Astaxanthin

The main mechanism of action of astaxanthin is its capacity to combat free radicals and shield cells from oxidative damage. The effects of astaxanthin are as follows:

1. Free radical scavenging: Astaxanthin’s chemical makeup makes it capable of scavenging free radicals and reactive oxygen species (ROS), stopping them from harming cellular elements like proteins, lipids, and nucleic acids.
2. Membrane defense: Astaxanthin has the unusual capacity to cross cell membranes, offering both lipophilic and hydrophilic defense against oxidative harm.
3. Anti-inflammatory properties: Astaxanthin can control the expression of pro-inflammatory cytokines and prevent nuclear factor kappa B (NF-B). NF-B is a transcription factor implicated in inflammation and immunological responses, from becoming activated.
4. Enhanced endogenous antioxidant systems: Astaxanthin has been found to increase the expression of antioxidant enzymes like superoxide dismutase (SOD) and catalase. This can further strengthen the body’s resistance to oxidative stress.

Optimal Dosage of Astaxanthin

The best amount of astaxanthin to take depends on a number of variables, including age, health, and sensitivity. The majority of studies done on astaxanthin’s health advantages have employed daily dosages between 2 mg and 12 mg. Users should start with a dose of 4 mg per day and adjust as necessary based on personal response and desired results. The adjustment of dosage should be done under the guidance of a medical expert. Before beginning the astaxanthin supplementation regimen, you should also note if you have any pre-existing condition or are taking medication.

Side Effects of Astaxanthin

When taken in the proper amounts, astaxanthin is usually regarded as safe and well-tolerated. However, some people may develop negative effects, especially if they take it in large amounts or when they combine it with other drugs. The following are possible adverse effects of astaxanthin:

1. Gastrointestinal symptoms: Some people may have mild gastrointestinal discomfort, such as nausea, diarrhea, or abdominal pain, particularly at larger dosages,
2. Effects on hormones: Astaxanthin may have negligible estrogenic or anti-estrogenic effects, which may have an impact on hormone-sensitive conditions. However, additional study is required to validate these results.
3. Skin pigmentation: Astaxanthin may slightly alter the color of the skin, giving it an orange or pink tinge. Usually, stopping the supplement has a transient and reversible influence on this effect.

Potential Substance Interactions with Astaxanthin

Due to its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant qualities, astaxanthin may interact with a variety of substances, including prescription drugs and other dietary supplements. The following are a few possible interactions:

1. Anticoagulants and antiplatelet drugs: When used with anticoagulants or antiplatelet drugs like warfarin, aspirin, or clopidogrel, astaxanthin may increase the risk of bleeding.

2. Antihypertensive drugs: Astaxanthin may increase the effects of antihypertensive drugs on blood pressure, possibly resulting in abnormally low blood pressure.

3. Immunosuppressive drugs: Astaxanthin’s immunomodulatory actions may counteract the effects of immunosuppressive drugs like cyclosporine or corticosteroids.

Best Responsible Use of Astaxanthin

To maximize the advantages of the supplementation and reduce the hazards of taking astaxanthin supplements, here are a few best practices to follow:

1. Before beginning an astaxanthin supplement, talk to a doctor, especially if you have a medical condition or are taking medication.
2. Based on each person’s tolerance level and the intended results, start with a smaller dosage and progressively raise it.
3. Keep an eye out for any possible adverse effects and modify the dosage as necessary.
4. Use astaxanthin with caution when combining it with other ingredients, especially those that have recognized interactions.
5. To ensure quality and purity, make sure the astaxanthin supplement is purchased from a reliable supplier.

Astaxanthin: Conclusion

 In conclusion, ongoing and future research is required to find out the exact mechanism of astaxanthin in the body. Nonetheless, with an understanding of the potency of astaxanthin as an antioxidant, you know that it is a great supplement for its protective effects on the brain. Its promising factor lies in reducing the oxidative stress on the cells. Aside from promoting cognitive performance, it is also a great supplement for your general well-being. If you are interested in trying out astaxanthin, be sure to seek a doctor’s advice.

You also need to make sure that you take the supplement strictly according to the dosage that is recommended to you by the doctor. Failure to comply with the suggested dosage might result in adverse side effects which include gastrointestinal problems, hormonal problems, and others.

References:

1. Ji, X., Peng, D., Zhang, Y., Zhang, J., Wang, Y., Gao, Y., Lu, N., & Tang, P. (2017). Astaxanthin improves cognitive performance in mice following mild traumatic brain injury. Retrieved from: Brain Research, 1659, 88–95.
2. Grimmig, B., Kim, S., Nash, K., Bickford, P. C., & Shytle, R. D. (2017). Neuroprotective mechanisms of astaxanthin: a potential therapeutic role in preserving cognitive function in age and neurodegeneration. Retrieved from: GeroScience, 39(1), 19–32.
3. Kumar, S., Kumar, R., Kumari, A., & Panwar, A. (2021). Astaxanthin: A super antioxidant from microalgae and its therapeutic potential. Retrieved from: Journal of Basic Microbiology, 62(9), 1064–1082.

Important Note: The information contained in this article is for general informational purposes only, and should not be construed as health or medical advice, nor is it intended to diagnose, prevent, treat, or cure any disease or health condition. Before embarking on any diet, fitness regimen, or program of nutritional supplementation, it is advisable to consult your healthcare professional in order to determine its safety and probable efficacy in terms of your individual state of health.

Regarding Nutritional Supplements Or Other Non-Prescription Health Products: If any nutritional supplements or other non-prescription health products are mentioned in the foregoing article, any claims or statements made about them have not been evaluated by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration, and such nutritional supplements or other health products are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.