Spotlight on Supplements: Astaxanthin
Astaxanthin may not be easy to pronounce (“asta-ZAN-thin”) nor widely known, but there is interest in this dietary supplement for its potent antioxidant activity. EN explores evidence and applications of this colorful carotenoid.
Overview. Astaxanthin is an orange-red, fat-soluble pigment that belongs to a group of phytonutrients called carotenoids. Carotenoids are responsible for the naturally occurring bright red, yellow, and orange hues found in plants, algae, and photosynthetic bacteria. Early studies of astaxanthin observed an antioxidant power 10 times greater than beta-carotene and 500 times that of vitamin E. This antioxidant activity may help protect cells against oxidant damage. Data suggests that astaxanthin may also act against inflammation and help to support immune system defenses. Humans cannot synthesize astaxanthin but can acquire it via consumption of foods or supplements. Naturally, algae are the primary sources of astaxanthin in marine organisms and it is present in a wide variety of red-pink crustaceans and aquatic creatures including krill, trout, shrimp, and crayfish. Commercially, astaxanthin may be produced from microalgae (e.g., H. pluvialis), Phaffia yeast, or chemical synthesis. Astaxanthin was first marketed as a dietary supplement in the late 1990s and is also used as a colorant in food and animal-feed production. Astaxanthin is available in several formats including capsules and soft gels in various milligram dosages.
Evidence. Due to its powerful antioxidant activity, astaxanthin has been researched as a therapy for a wide range of diseases (e.g. cancers, neurodegenerative, gastrointestinal, and cardiovascular diseases). A 2015 systematic review and meta-analysis of data from 10 randomized controlled trials did not report a significant effect of astaxanthin supplementation on lipid profiles, though a slight blood glucose-lowering effect was observed. Though other clinical studies report promising clinical benefits, additional trials are needed to clarify astaxanthin’s therapeutic potential. At this time, astaxanthin supplementation shouldn’t replace existing treatments.
Safety and Side Effects. Astaxanthin is generally recognized as safe in the U.S. with no significant side effects when taken with food. Mild side effects may include increased bowel movements. Several human studies utilizing astaxanthin from H. pluvialis algal extract concluded that six mg per day can safely be consumed by healthy adults. Higher doses may cause gastrointestinal pain or red-colored stools due to the pigmentation of astaxanthin. Data is limited for drug interactions with astaxanthin. Please check with your doctor before starting a new supplement or making significant changes to your diet.
The post Spotlight on Supplements: Astaxanthin appeared first on University Health News.
Read Original Article: Spotlight on Supplements: Astaxanthin »
