Astaxanthin: Benefits, Risks, and Sources

Key Takeaways

• Astaxanthin is a red pigment found in salmon, algae, and other sea life. It’s known for being a powerful antioxidant that may help neutralize free radicals and reduce inflammation in the body.
• Research suggests astaxanthin may support bone health by reducing inflammation and bone pain, help smooth wrinkles and protect against UV-induced skin damage, and support heart health. However, evidence is still limited and more human research is needed.
• You can add astaxanthin to your diet by eating salmon once or twice a week. While supplements are available, whole food sources are generally recommended as a first option.

Astaxanthin is a natural red pigment found in sea creatures, including trout, microalgae, yeast, and shrimp. It’s most commonly found in Pacific salmon and gives the fish its pinkish color.

Astaxanthin is also a high antioxidant source and is believed to have many health benefits. It’s been linked to healthier skin, heart, and bone health.

However, further research in humans is still needed to confirm its effectiveness.

Learn more about the potential benefits of astaxanthin, how you can add it to your diet, and any risks you should be aware of.

Astaxanthin is most known for being a powerful antioxidant.

Antioxidants help protect your body from damage caused by free radicals, unstable atoms that can harm cells. If they build up, they may contribute to the development of conditions like arthritis, heart disease, and, in some cases, cancer.

Due to its antioxidant properties, astaxanthin may help to neutralize free radicals and reduce inflammation in the body, which can support heart and skin health.

Astaxanthin may also have a future in the treatment of joint pain, including conditions like rheumatoid arthritis, which affects nearly one in every five Americans.

A 2023 review found that astaxanthin may reduce inflammation and bone pain. It may also help protect against bone disease and bone density loss.

Astaxanthin can help promote healthy skin. A

However, more research is needed to confirm these findings.

Researchers are also looking into claims that astaxanthin can benefit heart health. A 2021 review found that the pigment may help with several biological functions, including protecting cardiovascular health.

Review authors noted that it may prevent the development of or help manage conditions, including dementia, Parkinson’s disease, and cardiovascular disease.

Further research is still needed to confirm these findings.

Astaxanthin is generally considered safe with no side effects. However, there isn’t enough research to determine whether the pigment is safe for pregnant or breastfeeding or chest-feeding people.

If you are considering increasing astaxanthin in your diet or taking it in supplement form, it can be helpful to speak with a healthcare professional first to understand if there are any risks.

To benefit from astaxanthin’s antioxidant properties, consider eating salmon once or twice a week. For instance, grilled salmon is perfect for a light dinner.

Choose whole foods as your first option for getting required nutrients. While astaxanthin is available in supplement form, it’s important to note that the U.S. Food and Drug Administration doesn’t monitor the manufacture or sale of supplements or herbs.

Astaxanthin is a natural red pigment found in sea creatures, including trout, microalgae, yeast, and shrimp. It’s most commonly found in Pacific salmon and gives the fish its pinkish color.

Research shows it is also high in antioxidants and is believed to have many health benefits, such as improved skin, heart, and bone health.

However, further research in humans is still needed to confirm its effectiveness.