Small eye-fatigue and skin studies used algal astaxanthin 4–12 mg/day for 4–12 weeks
Reviewed · Published
Astaxanthin
A red carotenoid studied for antioxidant markers, not established as disease treatment.
Established functions
- A red carotenoid studied for antioxidant markers, not established as disease treatment.
Dietary sources
- salmon
- shrimp
- crab
Claims and evidence
Claims that Astaxanthin alone prevents or treats disease, or invariably improves health without deficiency, are unsupported.
Japanese reference amounts
- Japanese adults (age and sex as specified): No Japanese DRI established
Amounts studied
- Small eye-fatigue and skin studies used algal astaxanthin 4–12 mg/day for 4–12 weeks
Tolerable upper limits
- No UL; long-term high-dose data are limited
Forms and bioavailability
Supplement forms: Haematococcus pluvialis oleoresin, synthetic astaxanthin
- Fat-soluble; absorption improves with an oil-containing meal.
Safety and interactions
Adverse effects
- stool-color change
- gastrointestinal symptoms
- lower blood pressure
Medicine and nutrient interactions
- antihypertensives, immunosuppressants
Contraindications and cautions
- Consult during pregnancy, lactation, hypotension, or autoimmune disease.
Practical selection
- Compare Astaxanthin amount per serving, form, allergens, and batch testing; prefer a single-ingredient product suited to the intended use.
Sources and review
- NCCIH Herbs at a Glance and supplement safety resourcesNational Center for Complementary and Integrative Health
Daiki Minaki (editorial and evidence review) ·