What is Astaxanthin?

What is Astaxanthin?

Feb 23, 2019

Introduction

Many centuries ago, scientists discovered naturally occurring organic pigments known as carotenoids, which are crucial for human health. Recently, another carotenoid has been brought to the world’s attention as a “super nutrient” for the human body and for skin health – the Astaxanthin.

Astaxanthin – The King of Carotenoid

The King of Carotenoid, Astaxanthin, is a dark red pigment that can be found naturally in microalgae (Haematococcus pluvialis), salmon, trout, krill, shrimp, crayfish, and lobster^[1].

Although Astaxanthin can be found in both creatures and microalgae, Haematococcus pluvialis is the richest source of Astaxanthin ^[2]. It is containing 1500-times higher of Astaxanthin compared to other creatures.

Astaxanthin sources contents in 100g
Animal source	Salmon	3 mg (2000X)
Animal source	Krill	4 mg (1500X)
Plant Source	H.pluvialis (AstaReal® source)	6000 mg

The naturally occurring red color of the creatures and microalgae is the color of Astaxanthin. Astaxanthin is a stress response of the microalgae cell. Initially, Astaxanthin in microalgae is in green color, once microalgae are in unfavorable conditions (depleted water, reduced nutrients, intense sunlight), the green color pigments will turn into red color. When red microalgae eaten by creatures like salmon, crabs, krill, and even flamingos, the Astaxanthin present in the algae causes their flesh and even plumage to take on a pink/orange coloration, as well as strengthening their natural responses to stressors.

Thus, Astaxanthin serves as a strong and powerful antioxidant in nature.

Algae generates Astaxanthin according to its environmental conditions

Astaxanthin – A Strong & Powerful Antioxidant

Astaxanthin exhibits strong antioxidant property in nature. It has a superior antioxidant capacity of slowing down the aging process. Studies have showed the results on Oxygen Radical Absorbance Capacity (ORAC) values for Astaxanthin, which is up to 6000x more potent than vitamin C, 3000x more powerful than Resveratrol, 800x stronger than Coenzyme Q10, 560x stronger than Green Tea Catechins and 40x more effective than Vitamin E. Therefore, Astaxanthin serves as the strongest oxygen quencher among the anti-aging molecules ^[3].

Today, the secret of Astaxanthin is unveiled- the proven and prestigious yet potent anti-aging nutrient that can restore our youthful skin from within by combating the aging signs.