Vibrant Aging: The Power of Astaxanthin in Active Nutrition

By: Susan Hamrahi|
September 25, 2024

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Categories: Cardiovascular Health, Healthy Aging, Sports Nutrition

Tags: activenutrition, antioxidant, exercise, health, mitochondria

What is Active Nutrition and Why Should You Care?

Active nutrition defines a proactive approach to maintaining health and vitality through a well-balanced diet and lifestyle interventions.  It is about optimizing physical and mental performance as we age, staying energetic, agile, and mentally sharp, rather than merely avoiding illness.

The grass roots movement of active nutrition began as the healthy aging concept which centered around minimizing the risks of chronic diseases that were more prevalent with age. As research has evolved and the understanding of aging has deepened, so has the approach. Active nutrition is conscious aging; it is not merely a period of health decline but an opportunity to maintain and even improve one’s health and well-being.  This approach involves not only dietary intake but also leveraging supplements to address nutritional gaps that may arise due to age-related factors.

Potential Health Benefits of Astaxanthin Supplementation

Astaxanthin is a powerful antioxidant, primarily found in marine organisms and seafood like salmon, shrimp and crab. Its striking red pigment is not just for aesthetics; it serves a critical role in protecting these organisms from oxidative stress in their environments. This antioxidant capacity translates well into human health.  As we age, our bodies undergo various changes, one of which is a decline in cellular function. This decline can lead to reduced energy levels, increased fatigue, and a higher risk of unhealthy aging.

Protect Your Cellular Powerhouse

Mitochondria are often referred to as the “powerhouses” of our cells. They are tiny organelles that play a crucial role in producing adenosine triphosphate (ATP), the energy currency of our cells. ATP is essential for almost every biological process, from muscle contraction to brain function. When we age, our mitochondria can become less efficient, leading to reduced energy production and an increase in oxidative stress—a factor that contributes to aging. Unlike many other antioxidants, astaxanthin can cross the blood-brain barrier and localize in mitochondrial membranes. This localization allows it to effectively protect mitochondrial DNA, lipids, and proteins from damage.

By enhancing mitochondrial function and supporting new mitochondria, astaxanthin contributes to increased ATP (cellular energy) production. This improvement in energy metabolism is particularly beneficial in tissues with high energy demands, such as skeletal muscle, heart, brain and eyes. For individuals looking to maintain their vitality and overall well-being as they age, enhancing mitochondrial function is essential. Healthy mitochondria help ensure that our bodies can efficiently produce the energy we need for daily activities, from exercise to mental tasks.

Conclusion

AstaReal® Astaxanthin provides a nutritional pillar for active nutrition by enhancing mitochondrial function and protecting against oxidative stress, making it a valuable addition to an active nutrition plan.  Most studies suggest a daily serving of 4 to 12 mg of astaxanthin for health benefits.