Astaxanthin is a natural pigment derived in particular from shellfish; it is ideal for the protection of the body.
Where does it come from?
There are several sources. Astaxanthin is found naturally in crustaceans, wild fish, as well as in certain animals and plants with a red coloration. This pigment belongs to the carotenoid family.
It is produced by micro-algae (e.g. the alga Haematococus pluvialis) to protect them when they are subjected to destructive stress due to habitat degradation. Thus, it is found in the predators of these micro-algae. We found it for example, in the flesh of salmon (especially wild salmon). The pigment, surrounded by a protein, is released by heat and is responsible for the change in color of crustaceans during cooking.
It should be noted that synthetic astaxanthin can also be manufactured.
Astaxanthin is an ally for both, skin and vascular health. It is one of the only antioxidants that can cross the blood-meningeal and blood-retinal barriers. The brain and eyes can therefore benefit from its advantages. Our internal organs are all receptive to it.
The benefits of astaxanthin are multiple, and results in many actions:
- Antioxidant action: The effects of astaxanthin are 10 to 100 times more powerful than other antioxidants (b-carotene among others). The protective effect of astaxanthin against oxidation is proven against damage to DNA, membranes, and the cardiovascular system.
- Anti-inflammatory action: protective role against inflammation and oxidation of the mitochondria. Its ability to decrease muscle lactic acid, and thus post-exercise pain, has been demonstrated.
- Action on physical performance: increases physical strength and optimizes muscle recovery time after exercise. It also plays a role in increasing resistance to exhaustion during intensive exercise.
- Action on the skin and eyes: protective properties against UV damage and sunburn. It also reduces wrinkles and improves skin hydration. In addition, clinical studies have also shown that natural astaxanthin promotes skin health by reducing hyperpigmentation, wrinkle formation and collagen degradation.
Astaxanthin, yes, but for whom?
It could be recommended for :
- Senior citizens, to improve their cognitive functions
- Persons who are working in front of screens, to protect visual functions
- Athletes, to improve endurance and muscle recovery
- Women, in search of improving the quality of their skin (improving the quality of collagen, therefore the elasticity of the skin by reducing its dryness)
This natural pigment is therefore an ideal active ingredient for your formulations!
If you wish to develop food supplements in your product range