Astaxanthin is a powerful antioxidant from microalgae that has gained popularity as a great booster to increase metabolism and promote good health. This naturally occurring carotenoid imparts a reddish color to foods such as salmon, shrimp, and lobster. However, one of the reasons astaxanthin has become famous is its amazing antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. Astaxanthin is unique in that it protects cells and tissues, primarily because it can cross the blood-brain barrier, which is essential for neutralizing free radicals with extreme efficiency, supporting metabolic health in a variety of ways. In the context of metabolism, oxidative stress and inflammation represent the biggest obstacles to sluggish energy production, sneaky fat formation, and sometimes chronic metabolic disorders. By reducing both of these challenges, astaxanthin promotes an efficient and health-promoting metabolism.
A key way in which astaxanthin’s beneficial activity supports metabolic health is through mitochondrial function. Mitochondria are the powerhouses of our cells and are the site of energy production. A decline in mitochondrial function with age thus leads to lower energy levels and more oxidative damage, a mechanism by which metabolic processes can slow down and disrupt proper body function. Astaxanthin helps mitochondria function better by scavenging free radicals and reducing oxidative damage within the organelles themselves, resulting in increased energy production. The implications of higher energy levels, combined with the energy from fat metabolism in the mitochondria, could explain weight loss management.
Astaxanthin also works in concert to reduce systemic inflammation, a major contributor to metabolic disturbances.
References:
https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC5778137/