Carotenoids are natural compounds found in algae, plants, and fungi. They absorb light in the blue spectrum so foods that contain them appear yellow, orange or red. Astaxanthin is a carotenoid found in various microorganisms, marine animals, salmon, trout, krill, shrimp, and it is the pink in flamingos. It is produced naturally by Haematocccus Lacustris and has been extensively studied for its unique antioxidant properties. Although all Astaxanthin molecules have the same chemical molecular structure natural astaxanthin outperforms synthetic astaxanthin by a long way as the synthetic product does not contain the same esterified profile.
A free radical is an unstable molecule that is missing one electron from its outer shell and is actively seeking to steal an electron for a neighbouring stable molecule. This in turn creates a domino effect. The molecule that lost its electron has now become a dangerous unstable free radical searching for an electron to stabilize itself.
A certain number of free radicals are necessary to keep our bodies functioning normally and our bodies are equipped to deal with them. However, when outside factors such as environmental pollutants, pesticides, chemicals and pharmaceuticals etc. occur, the free radical load increases thus causing an overload creating oxidative stress. This stress increases the risk of chronic diseases which include cancer, diabetes, arthritis, heart disease, vision loss, Alzheimer’s disease Parkinson’s and other inflammatory conditions related to many other autoimmune diseases.
Antioxidants are molecules stable enough to donate an electron without becoming destabilized themselves such as glutathione, CoQ10 and enzymes which our bodies naturally produce. Consuming additional antioxidants in our diet is an ideal way to help combat oxidative stress. Astaxanthin is possibly one of the most potent antioxidants we can consume. Its richest natural source is from the microalgae Haematococcus Lacustris /Pauvialis which contains the highest percentage i.e. 81.38% compared to other sources. Its antioxidant power is 6000 times more potent than Vit C, 800 times stronger than CoQ10 110 times more potent than Vit E and 5 times stronger than beta carotene. The natural form of this antioxidant has been shown in testing to have demonstrated up to 20 times greater free neutralizing capacity than the synthetic product. More than 93% of studies with astaxanthin have been conducted with the algae-based product and remain the most extensively studied source.
Astaxanthin can cross the blood brain barrier and the retinal barrier which enables it to support cells brain and eye health. In addition to its antioxidant properties it reduces eye inflammation, protects against macular degeneration, reduces dry eye symptoms and improves tear production. A study in 2020 has shown that because of its ability to reduce inflammation in the brain it may prevent brain cell death in traumatic brain injury cases. Another 12-week study recorded significant improvement in verbal and composite memory. Concerning heart health, research has shown that it has been able to reduce cholesterol levels and improve circulation. Other studies have revealed improvements in skin health, bone and joint health, healthy aging, exercise recovery and physical performance, immune health and cellular production.
True to its name, natural astaxanthin is more than a vibrant pigment it is Natures Pink Powerhouse in action. By defending your body at the cellular level this microalgae-derived marvel targets inflammation, safeguards your vital organs and elevates your daily vitality from the inside out. Integrating this highly effective antioxidant into your lifestyle will reduce the damaging effects of oxidative stress that plagues our modern living. Whether you want to defend against cognitive decline, soothe stiff bones and joints, protect your heart and vision, fight cancer, {see sciencedirect.com} diverse studies provide conclusive evidence of the wide-ranging real-life health benefits Astaxanthin will deliver a comprehensive whole-body step to optimum health.
I derived information and help from Astadaily.com a company whose products I find comprehensive and thoroughly researched.
WRITTEN BY: NATHALIE McNEILL, FOUNTAIN HEAD HEALTH STORE, FERGUS
519-787-5123 | fountainhead@cogeco.net
