WTF is Astaxanthin? (Benefits, Side Effects, Dangers) and is it Overrated?

Okay. Most likely it’s from the big pharmas that thought of promoting a new supplement trend that people would go gaga about (*my assumption). But it piqued my interest. From CNN to Cosmopolitan. Sponsored content are popping everywhere to market this “new” antioxidant. (refer to photos below)

Let’s learn together from a #nonsponsored perspective 🙂

 

 

What is Astaxanthin in a Nutshell

BENEFITS:

• Improves blood flow.
• Decreases blood pressure.
• Protects against blood clotting.
• Improves LDL cholesterol.
• Improves lipid counts.
• Decreases oxidative stress.
• In animal studies, an astaxanthin-derived compound protected the heart from damage from heart attacks.

 

What is Astaxanthin?

Astaxanthin is a reddish pigment that belongs to a group of chemicals called carotenoids. It occurs naturally in certain algae and causes the pink or red color in salmon, trout, lobster, shrimp, and other seafood.

How does it work?

Astaxanthin is an antioxidant. This effect might protect cells from damage. Astaxanthin might also improve the way the immune system functions.

 

Astaxanthin Benefits for Skin

Astaxanthin has been shown in clinical studies to increase skin moisture, moisture retention, elasticity, as well as promote skin smoothness, decreasing fine lines and wrinkles. 2. Astaxanthin has incredible UV-blocking properties, which helps to assist the skin in protecting itself against sun-related damage.

 

How Long to See Results Taking Astaxanthin?

As with any supplement, the degree to which you’d notice an effect really depends on the nutrient status of the individual at the time. However, research on astaxanthin suggests that positive effects are seen and felt within about four weeks.

 

Astaxanthin Sources

• Salmon.
• Shrimp.
• Crab.
• Lobster.
• Red Trout.
• Krill.

 

Astaxanthin Side Effects

• Decrease in blood pressure.
• Increase in skin pigmentation.

 

Astaxanthin Supplements in the Philippines

So far, the only brand of supplement that includes Astaxanthin is from Myra-E. Thus the influx of advertisements and promotions for this said chemical compound. Is it really effective? Does it really work? Is this the secret to eternal youth or just another fad?

How about you? Have you tried taking Astaxanthin? I might buy a bottle and see for myself.

 

 

 

 

🙂

Sources:

• _{https://www.webmd.com/vitamins/ai/ingredientmono-1063/astaxanthin}
• _{https://www.algaecal.com/expert-insights/astaxanthin/}
• _{https://blog.bulletproof.com/whole-body-benefits-of-astaxanthin/}