-ASTAXANTHIN Overview InformationAstaxanthin 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.
Astaxanthin is used for treating Alzheimer's disease, Parkinson's disease, “brain attack” (stroke), high cholesterol, and an eye condition called age-related macular degeneration (AMD). It is also used for preventing cancer.
Astaxanthin is applied directly to the skin for protection against sunburn.
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.
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-DID YOU KNOW? From: Vitamin Research News/ April 2012-
-Astaxanthin Supports Eye Health While
Reducing Shoulder and Lower Back Stiffness---By:Irfan Qureshi, ND
Astaxanthin is a nutritional substance in the class of carotenoids, similar to lutein and zeaxanthin. While lutein and zeaxanthin are normally found in eye tissue, astaxanthin is not. This beneficial carotenoid is a component of several foods in the diet, and the best sources include algae and krill. Emerging research in humans indicates that astaxanthin offers a broad spectrum of benefits for promoting health and well-being, including potent anti-oxidant protection, anti-inflammatory activity and support for cardiovascular and nervous system function. Astaxanthin is also emerging as a star ingredient for eye health.
It's uses are for tired eyes or eyestrain, such as associated with the common use of VDTs (video display terminals), including computers, cell phones and other devices. Of course given our lifestyle and dependence of these devices, a nutritional solution for reducing eyestrain and eye fatigue is especially useful. This is where astaxanthin comes in.
Researchers recently published a review paper (mainly conducted in Japan) concerning astaxanthin's effect on eye health.
-Some benefits:ability of the eye to foucs quickly from near to far objects, eye fatigue, reduced eyestrain in computer workers. It also increases retinal capillary blood flow in healthy humans. Astaxanthin also helpes anti-inflammatory effects in eye tissue.
It was found that the administration of 6 mg. of astaxanthin per day for four weeks led to significant improvements in accomodation ability and other symptoms of eyestrain. It also helped decrease blurred vision and reduced shoulder and low back stiffness (common in individuals experiencing chronic eyestrain).
Given the unique benefits it provides, astaxanthin could prove to be an important nutritional component for maintaining the health and function of our eyes. /
