Astaxanthin is a substance that belongs to the carotenoids. Carotenoids are colorants with functions. Known carotenoids include, for example, beta-carotene, but also as lutein-zeaxanthin. Astaxanthin belongs to the rather unknown carotenoids. It has molecular changes from the structure to the other antioxidants mentioned and therefore has special abilities. You will learn this and much more exciting information in this article.
What is astaxanthin?
Astaxanthin is a natural substance. In principle, there is also synthetic astaxanthin, which, however, is usually not used for humans, but for feeding animals that need this substance. The valuable astaxanthin is produced in nature by algae. It helps algae survive even in the most adverse conditions. This makes it clear what a powerful effect this substance has. If algae are under stress, they turn red. This red pigment is the astaxanthin. Animals such as crabs, fish, salmon and flamingos eat algae and are therefore rich in astaxanthin. Also, the pink color of the shell or skin of these animals comes from the high astaxanthin content in their bodies. Salmon have the highest astaxanthin content in their muscles. This allows them to achieve extremely high performance. Salmon can swim hundreds of miles upstream to lay their spawn.
The special abilities of astaxanthin
Astaxanthin can cross the blood-brain barrier as well as the blood-retinal barrier, which means that it is able to act in the brain as well as in the eyes.
It basically acts as an antioxidant. But what are oxidants actually about? This is about free radicals. Free radicals are substances that are able to take away an electron from other substances and molecules. This is not good for our body cells, because if a body cell that is functioning well in itself loses an electron due to a free radical and this process occurs repeatedly, it can no longer function properly. The body cell degenerates or degenerates and ages. Optimal function is impaired. The consequences of this are cancer, inflammation in many places and rapid aging. The organ or cell will never be fully functional again at this point.
Free radicals are mainly found in our environment. We are exposed to many toxins, which act like free radicals. We have stress, which we feel and create ourselves. In addition, factors such as electrosmog as well as toxins and heavy metals in our own bodies burden us every day. Even food intolerances are capable of generating free radicals. According to this, everyone is exposed to free radicals. The process that generates the free radicals is called oxidation. One agent that prevents this is an antioxidant. Known as such are especially vitamin C and vitamin E. These are also very good to use. The effect of astaxanthin, however, according to various studies, is up to six thousand times stronger than that of vitamin C, as well as about five hundred times stronger than that of vitamin E. This effect is simply great. In addition, astaxanthin has virtually no side effects. In the case of vitamin C and vitamin E, the effect can be reversed if too much is taken and can have exactly the opposite effect on the body. This cannot happen with astaxanthin. If the intake of astaxanthin is much too high, the palms of the hands and the cornea of the feet may turn pink. However, provided the recommended intake of four to twelve milligrams per day is not exceeded, there is no risk of discoloration.
Other positive effects of astaxanthin
Astaxanthin is able to heal chronic inflammation. Furthermore, it protects the coronary vessels, reducing the risk of heart attack. It also protects the brain, intestines and nerve cells from inflammation.
In summary, astaxanthin protects all organs from free radical damage. Especially organs with a high blood supply, such as the kidneys and the eyes, need to be protected with the help of antioxidants.
The basic recommendation is a daily intake of four milligrams. This corresponds to a gel capsule. It is important to pay attention to a good quality, because if astaxanthin comes into contact with oxygen, it immediately reacts with it and breaks down. The substance must be encapsulated during manufacture in the absence of oxygen.
Astaxanthin has a great effect and can be used without hesitation, especially in the current times, to support the body in the best possible way.
