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Astaxanthin: Frequently Asked Questions Answered

What is Astaxanthin?

Astaxanthin is a natural pigment found primarily in marine organisms and some animals. It belongs to the class of chemicals called carotenoids. It provides the red colour to trout, shrimp, salmon, lobster, and other seafood. 

Moreover, Astaxanthin is an antioxidant that has many health benefits. Its properties have a link with healthy skin, heart, immune system, and joints. It is a medicine that people use for various skin and health concerns.

What are the uses of Astaxanthin?

Astaxanthin is an antioxidant. It helps reduce a natural process called oxidation in the body. This, in turn, helps in ways.

  • Anti-Aging
  • Cancer prevention
  • Reducing Chances of Heart disease,
  • Alzheimer’s disease,
  • Parkinson’s disease,
  • Eye diseases like cataracts and macular degeneration

Moreover, it also helps with the following

  • Slows the growth of skin cancer cells
  • Prevents plaque buildup in arteries
  • Protects the heart from lack of oxygen
  • Reduces the growth of H. pylori bacteria and prevent peptic ulcers.
  • Boosts immune functions.

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    What are the side effects of Astaxanthin?

    There are not many side effects of astaxanthin. A few things can happen, like increased bowel movements, red stools, lower blood pressure, and calcium levels. In contrast, overdoses of Astaxanthin can hinder an enzyme called 5-alpha-reductase. This restricts the change of testosterone into DHT in the body and can cause lower libido, male breast growth, or erectile dysfunction. However, more studies are required to find evidence of the side effects.

    What is Astaxanthin

    Uses of Astaxanthin

    Side effects of Astaxanthin

    References

    1. ASTAXANTHIN: Overview, Uses, Side Effects, Precautions, Interactions, Dosing and Reviews
    2. Astaxanthin
    3. Astaxanthin | Side Effects | Dosage | Precautions | Medicine
    4. Astaxanthin in Skin Health, Repair, and Disease: A Comprehensive Review

    Disclaimer: The information provided herein is accurate, updated and complete as per the best practices of the Company. Please note that this information should not be treated as a replacement for physical medical consultation or advice. We do not guarantee the accuracy and the completeness of the information so provided. The absence of any information and/or warning to any drug shall not be considered and assumed as an implied assurance of the Company. We do not take any responsibility for the consequences arising out of the aforementioned information and strongly recommend you for a physical consultation in case of any queries or doubts.

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    Frequently Asked Questions about Astaxanthin

    No, astaxanthin can’t turn your skin pink. However, it can save your skin from getting pink/red from sunburn. This is because astaxanthin has properties that reduce sunburns. Moreover, astaxanthin helps in restoring hydration and elastin in your skin and helps reduce aging signs. It increases skin moisture levels and reduces acne and wrinkles.

    In most cases, astaxanthin is prescribed as daily doses of 4-18 mg. Doses also depend upon the cause and why one takes astaxanthin. You should consult a doctor, talk about your concerns, and he will help you with the doses. An expert will prescribe doses depending upon specific conditions.

    Different studies suggest that astaxanthin influences the renin-angiotensin system (RAS) and blood pressure. The studies showed reduced SBP (systolic blood pressure) in the groups. It helps to reduce hypertension/ high blood pressure by reducing blood oxidative stress. It happens by relaxing blood vessel walls. If you have a high BP problem, consult a doctor before taking any medicines.

    Astaxanthin has some natural properties that have several health benefits related to skin, eyes, heart, kidneys, etc. However, simply consuming astaxanthin without consulting a doctor can result in severe side effects. Always consult an expert before taking astaxanthin or any other medicine. He will prescribe doses according to your condition that will give positive results.

    The best time to consume astaxanthin is during or after a meal. After consulting an expert, he will examine the specific condition or cause; astaxanthin will be needed. Your doctor will prescribe daily doses and also suggest the instructions of dosage. Follow the instructions of the doctor and take doses accordingly.

    There are no major studies or research that show any relation between pregnancy and astaxanthin. However, it can boost immune function that can cause complications. It is better to consult a doctor and consume astaxanthin only if it is prescribed. More studies are needed to evaluate its effects on pregnant or breastfeeding women.

    Yes, studies have shown positive results of astaxanthin on overall eye health. It helps prevent dry eyes and soreness, reduces eye strain and fatigue, and increases blood flow to eye tissues. It also helps increase viewing ability and decrease blurred vision and improve focus. Moreover, it also helps to perceive depth and prevent double vision.

    No, astaxanthin doesn’t cause weight gain. However, some doses of astaxanthin may decrease weight. It decreases liver weight, plasma triacylglycerol, liver triacylglycerol, and total cholesterol levels. This, in turn, can not cause weight gain in the patients.

    Yes, astaxanthin is safe if taken according to prescribed doses. Overdoses can increase bowel movements and result in red stools. It shows positive results for various body parts like eyes, skin, immune system, etc. However, overdoses can cause unpleasant side effects. Consult a doctor before consuming any medicine.

    Patients with bleeding disorders, autoimmune disorders, hypertension, diabetes, low blood calcium levels, allergy, asthma, etc., should stay extra informed regarding astaxanthin. Your doctor will examine your medical history and prescribe astaxanthin if it is okay. Pregnant and breastfeeding women should also consult a doctor.