Stop the Clock with Astaxanthin
While we cannot prevent the aging process, we can use lifestyle choices and proper supplementation to significantly slow it down. Eating a whole food diet rich in fruits and vegetables, hydration, and exercise are important. However, antioxidant supplements are key to putting the brakes on aging. Examples of antioxidants include vitamins C and E, selenium, and carotenoids, such as beta-carotene, lycopene, lutein, and zeaxanthin. [1]
Antioxidants protect the body from the cellular damage and inflammation caused by free radicals. Not all antioxidants rank the same. The most powerful antioxidant is astaxanthin. Astaxanthin is a carotenoid that gives the bright red-orange pigment to foods like salmon, algae, lobster, and krill. It also gives flamingos their pretty pink feathers. Astaxanthin is often called the “king of carotenoids” because of its high concentration of compounds that fight free radicals. Astaxanthin’s ability to combat free radicals is 6,000 times higher than vitamin C, 550 times higher than vitamin E, 800 times higher than CoQ10, and 40 times higher than beta-carotene. [2]
Along with astaxanthin’s impressive antioxidant load come significant benefits. It mitigates oxidative stress and helps prevent your body from rusting from the inside out. The benefits of astaxanthin include:
- Boosts the immune system
- Helps prevent sunburn
- Promotes clear smooth skin
- Boosts collagen and helps decrease wrinkles
- Supports cognitive health and mental function
- Help reduce lactic acid after workouts
- Promotes eye health
- Promotes heart health
- Support mitochondrial function
- Boosts male fertility
- Supports gastrointestinal immune functions
Astaxanthin is also used as part of the protocol for treating diseases like Alzheimer’s, Parkinson’s, stroke, high cholesterol, liver disease, age-related macular degeneration, metabolic syndrome, rheumatoid arthritis, and cancer prevention. [3]
To complement your astaxanthin supplements, make sure you incorporate the following top antioxidant-rich fruits and vegetables:
- Blueberries
- Dark chocolate
- Raspberries
- Strawberries
- Spinach
- Oranges
- Green beans
- Blackberry
- Kale
- Cranberries
If your goal is to look younger and feel more energetic as you age, then making sure you get adequate levels of antioxidants is key. You can also apply astaxanthin directly on your skin to nourish it from the outside. I use these products daily to add extra hydration to my skin. The benefits include diminishing fine lines and wrinkles, while providing antioxidant protection and illuminating skin.
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The information and content provided in this blog, or any referenced or linked materials, are not intended and should not be taken as medical guidance. This blog is not to be used as an alternative to consulting a medical professional. If you have an existing medical concern, you should speak with a healthcare professional. Do not under any circumstances ignore professional advice or delay consulting with an expert because of information covered in this blog, website, or any referenced or linked materials. If you believe you have a medical emergency, call emergency services immediately. The views put forward in this blog have no relation to any academic, hospital, healthcare, or any other organization.
