Carotenoids are a group of antioxidant pigments that give fruits and vegetables their colors.
That means some supplement products may not contain what the label says.
No supplement is intended to treat, cure, or prevent disease.
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While more extensive research is necessary regarding effectiveness, astaxanthin is sometimes used to treat various health conditions.
Free radicals can damage components (parts) within the body, including the hereditary materialDNA.
Per a review article, a clinical trial studied astaxanthin in a few healthy older adults.
These results suggest that astaxanthin may improve brain function.
Even with these encouraging results, it is still challenging to quantify astaxanthin’s effects.
This makes it difficult to determine which substance may have been responsible for the positive results.
PLOOH builds up abnormally in the red blood cells (RBCs) of people with AD and dementia.
Drawbacks in these trials include the small number of participants and the combined use of astaxanthin with sesamin.
And results of one study suggested that astaxanthin didn’t help people older than 54 on word memory tests.
AMD is a vision-threatening condition that tends to affect people over 50especially those older than 65.
In AMD, blood leaks into themacula, which is the center of theretinain the back of the eye.
The macula helps you see fine details.
The article included other small clinical trials, which showed that astaxanthin improvedvisual sharpnessanddeep visioncompared to a placebo.
Eye accommodation is switching focus from far away to nearby objects.
Although promising, many of these studies were small and sometimes reflected conflicting results.
The review article also mentioned another small study.
Although the results are positive, there are few human studies.
And the available human studies have been small and short-term.
Therefore, additional high-quality research with extensive and longer-term clinical trials is warranted.
The same review article also mentioned several small studies that supported astaxanthin for skin health.
Common Side Effects
Astaxanthin is generally safe with no side effects when taken with food.
The FDA has placed astaxanthin on the GRAS (generally recognized as safe) list.
But astaxanthin is only GRAS at 6 to 7 milligrams (mg) daily.
If you’re having asevere allergic reaction, symptoms may include breathing difficulties, itchiness, and rash.
If any of your symptoms feel life-threatening, call 911 and get medical help right away.
Otherwise, there is little information about the effects and safety of astaxanthin inpregnantpeople and the unborn fetus.
Pregnant people typically are not mentioned on product labels.
Reach out to a healthcare provider to discuss the benefits and risks of astaxanthin if pregnant.
Breastfeeding: There is limited information about the effects and safety of astaxanthin onbreastfeedingparents and nursing babies.
Children: There is little information about the impact and safety of astaxanthin in children.
Dosage: How Much Astaxanthin Should I Use?
While there are some studies on astaxanthin in humans, more research with high-quality clinical trials is still necessary.
For this reason, there are no guidelines on the appropriate dosage to use astaxanthin for any condition.
But astaxanthin doses may be between 2 mg and 24 mg in different countries.
The specific dose may vary based on the dosage form and medical condition.
What Happens If I Use Too Much Astaxanthin?
As mentioned, astaxanthin is generally safe, causing no side effects when taken with food.
The FDA recognizes astaxanthin as safe at 6 mg or 7 mg doses taken daily.
And there were no safety concerns at dosages above 11 mg per day.
But if you take too much astaxanthin, side effects may includered-colored stool (poop)andfrequent bowel movements.
If you suspect you are experiencing life-threatening side effects from too much astaxanthin, seek immediate medical attention.
How to Store Astaxanthin
Storage instructions may vary for different products.
Carefully read the directions and packaging label on the container.
Most medicines' optimal storage condition is in a cool and dry place.
Discard after one year or as indicated on the packaging.
Avoid putting unused and expired products down the drain or in the toilet.
If you plan totravelwith astaxanthin, get familiar with your final destination’s regulations.
The U.S. Embassy website might be a helpful resource.
Ask a healthcare provider how to travel with your medications or natural products if necessary.
Manufacturers in the United States make astaxanthin supplements.
To safely take herbal medicationslike astaxanthininform your healthcare providers and pharmacists about all medications you take.
This includes over-the-counter (OTC), herbal, natural medicines, and supplements.
They can help prevent possible interactions and side effects.
They can also ensure youre given astaxanthin a fair trial at appropriate doses.
Sources of Astaxanthin & What to Look For
There are a few different sources of astaxanthin.
You may also find astaxanthin added to food.
Astaxanthin Supplements
Astaxanthin supplements are commonly available in capsule form.
The product that works for you will depend on personal preferences and your desired results.
Each product may work a bit differently, depending on the form.
Summary
Astaxanthin is a carotenoid and pigment typically found in water-living organisms.
Before using astaxanthin, involve a registered dietitian, pharmacist, or healthcare provider in your decision-making process.
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