Swanson

Astaxanthin 4mg 60 softgels

• Prevention of cardiovascular diseases
• The strongest antioxidant known to man
• Reduces the symptoms of cell ageing
• Reduces inflammations in the body system
• Reduces the cholesterol levels
• Neuroprotective properties
• Supports the immune system
• Protects eye health

Swanson Astaxanthin is a dietary supplement containing astaxanthin, a natural organic chemical compound from the group of xanthophylls. The unique biochemical properties of astaxanthin are mainly used in antioxidant and anti-inflammatory therapies. Astaxanthin shows cardioprotective, neuroprotective and immunomodulatory properties. Numerous clinical studies have confirmed its effectiveness and safety for the body system.

Astaxanthin is a xanthophyll carotenoid produced mainly by the algae species Haematococcus pluvialis for the protection against various threats (pathogens attack, water shortages, too much sun). In unfavourable conditions, astaxanthin quickly accumulates in the cells of green algae and changes their colour to intensely red and protects their organisms from harmful external factors.

Astaxanthin produced from algae from Haematococcus pluvialis species is the best natural available form of this compound. In contrary to synthetic astaxanthin, it is characterised by far greater bioavailability and effectiveness of action.

The unusual biological properties of astaxanthin are a result of its chemical structure, that is, nine conjugates double bonds, the presence of two hydroxyl groups and two carbonyl groups. They give astaxanthin a lot more stability and polarity in comparison to other carotenoids and are responsible for its antioxidant properties.

Astaxanthin stands out from other antioxidants, as it is both lipophilic and hydrophilic compound, that is, it is both fat and water soluble.

Antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties
The human body system is constantly exposed to oxidative stress and free radical attacks. Without proper antioxidant protection, cells grow old faster and are more susceptible to damage, which increases the risk of diseases of affluence and leads to organ dysfunctions.

Astaxanthin is the strongest antioxidant known to man. It is estimated that the effect is 65 times more intense than vitamin C effect and 54 times stronger than beta-carotene effects. It performs well with various forms of free radicals, neutralizes reactive oxygen species (ROS), peroxyl radicals and hydroxyl radicals as well as suppresses the activity of singlet oxygen. The astaxanthin structure resembles the structure of biological membranes and that is why it affects the entire surface of cells and more effectively protects them from damage caused by oxidative stress. Clinical studies demonstrate that astaxanthin action is not limited to direct reactions with oxidizing factors. It also contributes to an increase in the activity of many antioxidant enzymes.

It is commonly known that chronic inflammations are responsible for many diseases and accelerate the ageing of the body system. By reducing systemic inflammations, astaxanthin can contribute to the reduction in development of many diseases.

Astaxanthin regulates the activity of numerous inflammatory mediators, including TNF-a (tumor necrosis factor alpha), NO (nitric oxide), interleukins and enzymes cyclooxygenase-1 and cyclooxygenase-2. There are studies comparing the effect of astaxanthin with popular pharmacological measures from NSAIDs (non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs). They have demonstrated that astaxanthin works admittedly slower, but more effectively. While NSAIDs affect one or two inflammatory mediators, astaxanthin modulates many of them and does not cause any side effects.

Prevention of cardiovascular diseases
Antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties of astaxanthin are the main mechanism of its cardioprotective activity. It also expands to the ability of reducing the level of cholesterol in the bloodstream. Studies in rodents have demonstrated that regular supplementation with astaxanthin leads to a clear decrease in the level of triglycerides and harmful LDL cholesterol and at the same time stimulates the increase in the level of adiponectin (a hormone which determines metabolism of fatty acids and glucose, showing antiatherosclerotic and anti-inflammatory properties).

Some scientists also suggest the positive impact of astaxanthin on blood rheology and its anticoagulant properties, which could also make astaxanthin a potential preventive measure of diseases of the cardiovascular system.

Skin protection
Astaxanthin has a very beneficial influence on the health of skin. It reduces oxidative damage which can lead to dark spots and wrinkles, improves blood circulation and regulates the moisture content of skin. It has anti-ageing properties, gives the skin a proper elasticity, smoothes wrinkles and reduces the visibility of age spots that occur with age.

Astaxanthin protects skin from harmful UV rays. It absorbs ultraviolet light and can improve the effectiveness of sunscreen. Topical treatment reduces the negative effects of sunburn.

Other health promoting properties
Astaxanthin is considered to be a preventive measure in the prevention of neurodegenerative diseases (Alzheimer's disease, Parkinson's disease). It smoothly crosses the blood-brain barrier, improves cerebral circulation, and protects nerve cells from oxidative stress and the harmful effects of free radicals. It protects the brain from some forms of neurodegenerative damage.

Astaxanthin normalizes concentration of histamine in the body system, so that it alleviates the symptoms of asthma and acts as a natural anti-allergic substance.

Astaxanthin, like other carotenoids, has a very positive influence on seeing. It prevetns macular degeneration, cataracts and blindness.

Astaxanthin works at the cellular level and improves the functioning of the mitochondria. Some people use this substance to increase energy levels, improve the efficiency of the body system and facilitate recovery after intense work.

Astaxanthin is a dietary supplement with a wide range of therapeutic properties. It is recommended within general preventive healthcare. Due to its enormous antioxidant potential, it is a perfect element of the prevention of cardiovascular diseases and disorders caused by chronic inflammation.