Supplement of the Month: Astaxanthin

What is astaxanthin and where is it found?

Astaxanthin is a reddish carotenoid pigment found in microalgae, salmon, trout, red sea bream, shrimp, lobster, fish eggs, and many bird species. It is a powerful antioxidant very similar in structure to beta-carotene.  It may stimulate immunity and protect cells from damage therefore and may be beneficial for cardiovascular, inflammatory and neurodegenerative disease.

 What are the benefits of astaxanthin?

Astaxanthin is used to treat age-related macular degeneration, Alzheimer’s disease, Parkinson’s disease, stroke, cancer and hyperlipidemia.  It is also used to treat carpal tunnel syndrome, exercise-induced muscle soreness, rheumatoid arthritis, and menopausal symptoms. Topically it is used for sunburn and wrinkled skin.

 Are there interactions between astaxanthin and food or medications?

Be careful taking astaxanthin with other carotenoids because it may decrease absorption.

Are there side effects from astaxanthin?

None reported.