4. Astaxanthin Cleans Up the Cells
Astaxanthin is in a class of its own when it comes to antioxidant coverage, because it filters into every cell of the body. Its unique molecular lipophilic and hydrophilic properties allow it to span the entire cell, with one end of the astaxanthin molecule protecting the fat-soluble part of the cell and one end protecting the water-soluble part of the cell. You might think of it as giving your cell a full-body hug!
Natural astaxanthin is exceptionally powerful in singlet-oxygen quenching. A 2007 study analyzed several popular antioxidants and their antioxidant power. This study found astaxanthin was 6,000 times stronger than vitamin C, 800 times stronger than CoQ10, 550 times stronger than green tea catechins and 75 times stronger than alpha lipoic acid.
5. Gorgeous Skin and Sunscreen Protection
Astaxanthin has been shown to protect the body’s largest organ. The studies are clear and consistent and show excellent results for helping with skin moisture levels, smoothness, elasticity, fine wrinkles, and spots or freckles.
I have fair skin that tends to freckle, so I take astaxanthin, in part because it reduces damage caused by ultraviolet radiation from the sun. In fact, if you get a sunburn, which causes inflammation, astaxanthin penetrates the skin cells and reduces UVA damage. Think of it as an internal sunscreen. Other than skin benefits, I love astaxanthin because it relieves my minor aches and pains from yoga, dance, hiking, kayaking and whatever else I get into in the name of fun!
Sources and dosage
Wild, Pacific salmon is known to have the highest astaxanthin content. Farmed salmon contains synthetic astaxanthin, and should be avoided. As a guide, you would need to eat two wild salmon fillets a day in order to see benefits. A much easier way to consume the daily 10mg requirement is to take an astaxanthin supplement. Results are usually seen in two to four weeks, but it may take as long as six. You can find astaxanthin supplements in health food stores nationwide.
Top tips
Astaxanthin supplements should be taken with a meal containing fat (such as eggs or heart-healthy coconut and olive oils) for maximum absorption.
When purchasing astaxanthin, select a supplement brand you know and trust, because proper harvesting methods will protect its potency and provide better value for money.
I have not used this product so cannot give advice as to which brand to buy. Just follow the tips above and you should be able to find a suitable supplier. Or, ask for help at your health shop.
Full article and citations here Huffington post
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