In this interview we will introduce astaxanthin. What is it, where it come from and what are the benefits? Astaxanthin supports skin health, eye health, brain health, cardiovascular health, muscle performance and anti-fatigue. We will explore some of the science of astaxanthin as it pertains specifically to skin health in this interview with Karen Hecht.What is Astaxanthin?
Astaxanthin is a carotenoid, like beta-carotene from carrots and lycopene from tomatoes. The carotenoids in these fruits and vegetables are healthy antioxidants too, but astaxanthin is the strongest antioxidant of them all!
Astaxanthin for Skin Health
Skin is our largest organ and our first line of defense against environmental exposures like damaging UV rays, pollutants and microbes that can leave skin feeling dry and showing fine lines. Topical applications, like serums and creams, reach the surface of the skin but can’t get down into the deeper layers that contribute to skin’s elasticity and nourishment. Taking astaxanthin orally promotes healthy skin from the inside out. Astaxanthin improves circulation and supply of nutrients to the deepest layer of skin (the hypodermis), protects collagen integrity in the next layer (the dermis), neutralizes UV-induced free radicals causing skin damage at the surface layer (the epidermis), and prevents roughness by improving moisture retention at the outermost .
Dosing
Clinical studies have shown improvements in skin moisture and elasticity at 4mg/day of astaxanthin after 6 weeks. A comparative study showed astaxanthin protects again UV damage significantly better than other antioxidants like beta-carotene and canthaxanthin. Other studies with AstaReal® Astaxanthin at 6mg per day reveal the following benefits:
- supports skin hydration
- reduces the size of wrinkles
- improves skin texture
- protects the skin’s collagen layer
- promotes smooth skin
- enhances skin elasticity
- reduces skin spots
- protects skin condition from seasonal stress [low humidity]
Steve Lankford is the host of HealthQuestPodcast.com. Steve has over 40 years of experience in the natural products industry. His passion is helping others develop nutritional programs that work. At HealthQuestPodcast.com, Steve interviews the experts in the fields of science and nutrition. His in depth explorations and consumer friendly style are designed help listeners learn about the science of nutrition. His guests are some of the most respected experts in the natural products industry.To learn more, visit HealthQuestPodcast.com.
NOTE: The statements presented in this podcast should not be considered medical advice or a way to diagnose or treat any disease or illness. Dietary supplements do not treat, cure or prevent any disease. Always seek the advice of a medical professional before adding a dietary supplement to (or removing one from) your daily regimen. WholeFoods Magazine does not endorse any specific brand or product.
