Astaxanthin is a natural carotenoid found in salmon, crabs, shrimps, krill etc. It is literally nature’s gift to these animals to protect them from harsh or unfavourable environmental conditions. Haematococcus pluvialis is a fresh water microalgae that can produce the highest amount of natural astaxanthin. During certain stages of growth in its lifecycle, Haematococcus pluvialis accumulates astaxanthin which protects its cell from oxidation as well as UV radiation. During this phase, Haematococcus pluvialis is capable of accumulating the highest proportion of astaxanthin (around 5% of dry cell weight).
The main work of an antioxidant is to protect cells from dying because of oxidation. However, some antioxidants when they undergo an attack from many free radicals can get converted to pro-oxidants that increase oxidative stress. However, studies have shown that astaxanthin safety takes care of the free radicals without converting to a pro-oxidant, which is why astaxanthin is classified as a pure antioxidant.
The underlying cause for most lifestyle conditions is inflammation. Curbing this inflammation is essential to prevent this chain reaction from disturbing all the systems in the body. Astaxanthin with its potent anti-inflammatory properties helps to arrest this chain reaction and keep it in check.
There are quite a few studies that show that astaxanthin has a protective effect on the eyes and skin, supports muscle function, improves blood flow and reduces mental fatigue.
