A name that's hard to pronounce and remember.
Today we're talking aboutastaxanthin, a molecule with antioxidant properties that offers numerous benefits for our bodies. Just consider thatit’s the most powerful antioxidant in nature—550 times more effective than vitamin E and 6,000 times more potent than vitamin C.
Seafood for dinner tonight?
Astaxanthin is a carotenoid—that is, a plant pigment that is a precursor to vitamin A. In nature, it is synthesized primarily in plant organisms such as the algaeHaematococcus pluvialis, afavoritefoodof crustaceans and fish. If you’ve recently cooked Greek-style shrimp or sautéed shrimp in brandy, you’ll notice that a reddish, oily liquidremains in the pan after cooking . That’sastaxanthin.
It fights free radicals.
One of astaxanthin’s main functions is to combat free radicals. These are highly unstable molecules, as they contain at least one unpaired electron. Over time, they can lead to the onset of degenerative diseases. Unlike all other antioxidants, astaxanthin does not break down after donating its free electrons ; therefore , once the free radicals have been neutralized, it continues to perform its protective functions within the body.
It helps your eyesight.
Astaxanthin is a fat-soluble molecule, which means it is quickly absorbed by our bodies andreaches the organs, heart, and eyes directly. This molecule helps slow the deterioration of vision that typically occurs with age. But that’s not all! It is also recognized for its ability to counteract the effects of photosensitivity. We especially recommend it to those who spend a lot of time in front of a computer, as it absorbs blue light,counteracting the oxidative process in the eye’s cells. In addition, it protects against the harmful effects of UV rays and reduces the annoying sensation of blurred vision.
Astaxanthin is great for the heart.
A study was conducted at the University of Kuopio in Finland to examine the effectsof astaxanthin on the heart. During the three-month observation period, one group of participants was given a placebo, while the other was given 8 mg of astaxanthin as a dietary supplement. At the end of the study, it was found that taking this substance led to a decrease in blood triglycerides and an increase in HDL, the “good” cholesterol that contributes to heart health.