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The eyes are a beautiful part of the body that allows us to explore the world around us. But did you know there is a powerful antioxidant that can help support their health? Astaxanthin has been gaining in popularity as a way to protect our eyes and vision. Research shows that astaxanthin can provide a range of benefits, from reducing eye fatigue to protecting against age-related macular degeneration. In this article, we'll explain the advantages of astaxanthin for the eyes and other areas of the human body. 

## What is astaxanthin?
Astaxanthin is a naturally occurring [carotenoid](https://royalsocietypublishing.org/doi/abs/10.1098/rspb.1982.0061 "carotenoid") that is responsible for the vibrant pink color found in salmon, lobster, and other [seafood](https://www.takecareof.com/articles/foods-with-astaxanthin). It is also known for its powerful antioxidant properties, which have been shown to support brain, heart, skin, and eye health. As an antioxidant, astaxanthin helps to combat oxidative stress caused by free radicals and contribute to aging.

## What is the relationship between astaxanthin and eye health?
Astaxanthin has been gaining traction in the health and wellness industry for its ability to promote eye health. [This study shows](https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6667389/ "This study shows") that astaxanthin can help with maintaining a healthy aqueous humor, the clear liquid in the front part of the eye responsible for keeping the eye nourished and healthy. It plays an important role in maintaining intraocular pressure and supplying nutrients to the tissues of the cornea and lens. Disruptions in the aqueous humor can contribute to various eye issues. 

Additionally, astaxanthin can also help manage [VEGF(vascular endothelial growth factor)](https://www.karger.com/Article/Abstract/268033 "VEGF(vascular endothelial growth factor)") levels, which can also contribute to age-related eye issues when excess levels are present. 

<pull-quote>
“While it is important to limit screen time whenever possible, incorporating astaxanthin into your diet can provide added protection against the negative effects of digital screens.”
</pull-quote>

### Astaxanthin and oxidative stress
Astaxanthin is a natural carotenoid with potent antioxidant properties. It has been shown to scavenge [reactive oxygen species (ROS)](https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6165470/ "reactive oxygen species (ROS)") and reduce oxidative stress in the body. ROS are highly reactive molecules that can damage cells and contribute to various health issues.

[Studies have demonstrated](https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7293384/ "Studies have demonstrated") astaxanthin's ability to protect against oxidative stress in various tissues, including the brain, liver, and skin. It has also been shown to promote immune function and enhance physical performance. Astaxanthin's ROS-scavenging activity is believed to be a result of its unique chemical structure, allowing it to neutralize many types of free radicals.

### Astaxanthin and age related eye issues
With age there are several common eye conditions that can affect millions of people worldwide.

[This study shows](https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7281326/ "This study shows") the potential for astaxanthin to manage oxidative stress and promote eye health. This is particularly relevant because the retina contains high levels of polyunsaturated fatty acids, which are vulnerable to oxidation. Though promising in what it suggests, before we can draw any conclusions about astaxanthin’s role in long–term eye health, we need more research.

Although there are several risk factors for eye issues, such as smoking and genetics, proper nutrition is key to promoting optimal eye health. What you eat has a major impact on the health of your eyes. It appears that [a diet regularly rich in fruits and vegetables, with sufficient fish](https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3738980/ "a diet regularly rich in fruits and vegetables, with sufficient fish"), can help support good retinal health.

One commonality among these foods is that they all contain key nutrients, such as vitamins A and C, zinc, [omega-3 fatty acids](https://takecareof.com/articles/fish-oil-vs-omega-3s), and [lutein](https://www.takecareof.com/articles/astaxanthin-vs-zeaxanthin-vs-lutein). These nutrients are essential for maintaining healthy vision and promoting eye health. However, even if you strive to eat a healthy diet full of these eye-friendly foods, there may still be gaps in your nutrition.

That's where supplementation comes in. Taking an [astaxanthin supplement](https://takecareof.com/products/astaxanthin_6 "astaxanthin supplement") can help fill those gaps and provide additional protection for your eyes. 

### Astaxanthin and screen exposure
Astaxanthin has been gaining attention for its potential benefits in reducing the negative effects of screen exposure. With the increased use of computers, smartphones, and other digital devices, people are spending more time staring at screens than ever before! This prolonged exposure to blue light emitted by screens can cause eye strain, fatigue, and impact the retina. When you stare at a screen for too long, it can decrease your blinking and impact the normal function of the eye, which contributes to eye strain.

[In one placebo-controlled study](https://core.ac.uk/reader/70320160 "In one placebo-controlled study"), 46% of participants who supplementing with astaxanthin over 4 weeks reported an improvement in eye strain. [Another study showed](https://www.mdpi.com/1660-3397/18/8/387 "Another study showed") the protective effects of astaxanthin on photoreceptor cells that have been exposed to blue light. 

While it is important to limit screen time whenever possible, incorporating astaxanthin into your diet can provide added protection against the negative effects of digital screens.

## Is taking astaxanthin safe for your eyes? 
Fortunately, astaxanthin has a good safety profile and no adverse effects have been reported in any clinical studies to date. This means that it is generally safe for most people to take as a dietary supplement or as part of their regular diet. When adding a new supplement to your routine, be sure to always consult with your doctor. 

Not only is it safe, but it has the potential to greatly benefit your eyes. In fact, astaxanthin can help promote capillary flow in the retina, which can lead to better oxygen and nutrient delivery to the eyes. Participants [in this study](https://aor.ca/wp-content/uploads/2022/01/6-The-Effect-of-Astaxanthin-on-Retinal-Capillary-Blood-Flow-in-Normal-Volunteers.pdf "in this study") took 6mg of astaxanthin daily over a 4-week period and had significantly higher retinal blood flow in comparison to the placebo group.

## What are other benefits of astaxanthin than eye health?
Astaxanthin has been found to [offer a range of health benefits beyond just eye health](https://www.takecareof.com/articles/what-are-the-benefits-of-astaxanthin "offer a range of health benefits beyond just eye health"), particularly cardiovascular health, skin health, and brain function. Research shows that astaxanthin can promote healthy cholesterol levels for those whose levels are already within the normal range. Moreover, [preliminary research](https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S1756464621005090?via%3Dihub "preliminary research") shows the potential for astaxanthin to promote healthy blood pressure levels for those whose blood pressure levels  fall within the normal range. 

Additionally, astaxanthin has been shown to improve skin health by reducing wrinkles and promoting elasticity. [In one study](https://ojs.ptbioch.edu.pl/index.php/abp/article/view/2168 "In one study"), participants who supplemented with astaxanthin over a period of 6 weeks reported significant improvements in the appearance of fine lines, as well as more hydrated skin overall.

Lastly, [studies have shown](https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6117702/ "studies have shown") that astaxanthin can promote cognitive function and protect the brain against aging effects. As we age, our brains become more vulnerable to oxidative stress, which can leadimpact mental function. Astaxanthin helps promote brain health with neuroprotective antioxidant properties by protecting the brain from free radicals that contribute to oxidative stress. One [study](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/22962526/ "study") looked at the impacts of astaxanthin on cognitive health in healthy middle aged and elderly adults who complained of age-related forgetfulness. Study participants received 6-12mg of astaxanthin daily and had positive changes in cognitive performance and memory. The antioxidant properties of astaxanthin make it an excellent supplement to support cognitive health.

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## Can astaxanthin be taken with other eye health supplements?
Astaxanthin can indeed be taken with [other supportive eye health supplements](https://www.takecareof.com/articles/what-are-the-best-vitamins-for-eye-health "other supportive eye health supplements"). There are no negative interactions reported with other supplements meant to support eye health. Be sure to always talk to your doctor about any vision changes or concerns to make sure the underlying issues are being addressed.

## Astaxanthin vs other antioxidants
We already know that astaxanthin is a powerful antioxidant with an array of health benefits, but how does it compare to other well-known antioxidants such as vitamin C, vitamin E, and beta-carotene? Let’s take a closer look.

[Vitamin C](https://ods.od.nih.gov/factsheets/VitaminC-HealthProfessional/ "Vitamin C") is an essential nutrient that plays a key role in the body's immune system. It works by neutralizing free radicals that can contribute to oxidative stress. [Vitamin E](https://ods.od.nih.gov/factsheets/VitaminE-HealthProfessional/ "Vitamin E"), on the other hand, is a fat-soluble antioxidant that protects cell membranes from oxidative damage. [β-carotene](https://www.ars.usda.gov/research/publications/publication/?seqNo115=161747 "β-carotene") is another antioxidant that helps protect against free radicals by converting itself into vitamin A in the body. 

While these antioxidants are important for many aspects of our health, they may not be as effective as astaxanthin when it comes to protecting against oxidative stress. This is because, unlike most antioxidants, which work in the inner (e.g., vitamin E and β-carotene) or in the outer side of the cellular membrane (e.g., vitamin C), astaxanthin stretches through the bilayer membrane, providing protection against oxidative stress by scavenging free radicals in both the inner and outer layer of the membrane.

## What is the best way to increase your astaxanthin intake?
There are a few ways you can get more astaxanthin into your diet. One option is to consume foods that are naturally rich in astaxanthin. These include salmon, trout, shrimp, lobster, and [krill](https://www.takecareof.com/articles/krill-oil-vs-fish-oil). Eating these foods regularly can help boost your astaxanthin levels over time. However, it's important to note that the amount of astaxanthin in these foods can vary depending on factors, such as how they were raised or caught.

However, consuming clinically effective doses of astaxanthin through the diet may not be sustainable or realistic. Thus, the best option is to consider taking an astaxanthin supplement. [Care/of’s astaxanthin supplement](https://takecareof.com/products/astaxanthin_6 "Care/of’s astaxanthin supplement") is sustainably harvested from the highest quality ingredients. If you are looking for a way to enhance your eye health, while promoting cardiovascular and cognitive function, consider giving astaxanthin a try!

Astaxanthin has become a popular choice for those looking to support their eye health. This powerful antioxidant has an array of benefits for the eyes.

How Astaxanthin Can Benefit Your Eye Health | Care/of

Dr. Carla Montrond Correia ND, CNS

How Astaxanthin Can Help Support Your Eye Health

## What is astaxanthin, exactly? 
Astaxanthin has been getting quite a bit of buzz lately in the nutrition world. But what is it? 

Astaxanthin is a [carotenoid](https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7139534/ "carotenoid"), which is a type of chemical found in some plants and animals – including algae and certain fish. Astaxanthin is found in a type of microalgae that produces a pinkish red pigment that’s passed to the animals that consume it. Consider the color of coral, salmon, shrimp, and lobster. That comes from astaxanthin! 

So, what explains the surging interest in [astaxanthin](https://www.takecareof.com/articles/astaxanthin-vs-zeaxanthin-vs-lutein) among nutritionists? Well, astaxanthin is an antioxidant – and, as recent research suggests, it seems to be a very powerful [antioxidant](https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S1756464615000511 "antioxidant"), far outpacing other carotenoids. Antioxidants are substances that protect your body against harmful free radicals, thereby managing oxidative stress. In other words, they’re very important for your health and well-being. We’ll discuss astaxanthin’s health benefits in more detail below.  

## What are the benefits of astaxanthin? 
The first thing to know about the [benefits of astaxanthin](https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S1043661821000633 "benefits of astaxanthin") is that astaxanthin is a *very powerful* antioxidant. Indeed, it’s been found to be about 10-times more powerful than other carotenoids and about 1000-times more powerful than a type of vitamin E. By one significant metric – the quenching of singlet oxygen – it’s been found to be 6,000-times more potent than [vitamin C](https://ods.od.nih.gov/factsheets/VitaminC-HealthProfessional/ "vitamin C"). Singlet oxygen quenching activity has important implications for your health. 

As an antioxidant, astaxanthin is a fighter of harmful free radicals. This means that astaxanthin helps reduce oxidative stress and related symptoms. 

Astaxanthin [is also used to support](https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3917265/ "is also used to support") cardiovascular health, eye health, skin health, and brain health. 

<pull-quote>
“There’s also evidence to suggest that astaxanthin can be effective at relieving eye fatigue and other symptoms.”
</pull-quote>

### Cardiovascular Health
There have been some studies concerning astaxanthin’s benefits for cardiovascular health, though more research is warranted. Available research suggests that astaxanthin can indeed promote cardiovascular health. One [study](https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S1756464621005090?via%3Dihub "study"), for example, found that astaxanthin can promote healthy blood pressure levels for those already within a normal range. Another [study](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/19892350/ "study") found that participants with cholesterol levels already in normal range experienced increased HDL (good cholesterol) levels after supplementation. 

### Skin Health
One [study](https://ojs.ptbioch.edu.pl/index.php/abp/article/view/2168 "study") found that participants who took astaxanthin over a six-week period experienced improved skin health, including a reduction in the appearance of fine lines and better overall skin hydration. 

### Eye Health 
Because of its antioxidant properties, astaxanthin may support retinal health. [Studies](https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7281326/. "Studies") show that subjects with eye issues who use astaxanthin supplements report improvements in vision-related functions. There’s also evidence to suggest that astaxanthin can be effective at relieving eye fatigue and other symptoms. 

### Brain Health 
Astaxanthin is also increasingly known for its support of brain health. A [2012 study](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/22962526/ "2012 study") found that people supplementing with astaxanthin performed better on learning and cognitive tests than those who took a placebo. 

## What are the best natural sources for astaxanthin?
Because of the health benefits described above – and more – astaxanthin has become a very popular supplement. Care/of offers an [astaxanthin supplement, dubbed “The Coral King,”](https://www.takecareof.com/products/astaxanthin_6 "astaxanthin supplement, dubbed “The Coral King,”") that’s been shown to support brain, heart, skin, and eye health, and it even helps athletic performance and recovery. Like all Care/of products, our astaxanthin is third-party tested, C.L.E.A.N. certified, non-GMO, and isn’t packed with any unnecessarily fillers. If you’re thinking of astaxanthin supplementation, you can’t go wrong with a Care/of supplement. 

But there are natural sources of astaxanthin, too, that can help you boost your intake. Let’s take a look at some of the best natural sources. 

### Krill oil
When we’re talking about astaxanthin, we have to talk about krill. It’s one of the largest biomasses in the world, helping to provide sustenance to many different species. There’s a particular species of krill, known as Euphausia superba, that’s the main source of krill oil. [Krill oil](https://www.mdpi.com/2072-6643/6/9/3382 "Krill oil") not only contains the essential nutrient choline, but it also is a rich source of astaxanthin. It also contains the omega-3 fatty acids EPA and DHA. In other words, krill oil is packed with nutritional value and is a great option for combating oxidative stress. Its rich omega-3 content makes it especially useful for promoting cardiovascular health. Krill oil has also been used for other health-related purposes, including to support cognitive health. 

### Salmon
Salmon is a highly nutritious food that’s rich in selenium and omega-3s, and it also contains [astaxanthin](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/33549728/ "astaxanthin"). In fact, astaxanthin is part of what helps salmon become great swimmers, supporting them as they make their tireless journeys upstream. When deciding which salmon to eat, you may want to look into whether it’s wild-caught or farmed.  

#### Which type of salmon has the most astaxanthin?
Studies show that among the types of wild salmon, the maximum astaxanthin content was found in the wild Oncorhynchus species. [Studies](https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3917265/#B20-marinedrugs-12-00128 "Studies") found a range of 26-38 mg/kg of flesh in sockeye salmon, whereas low astaxanthin content was reported in chum. Wild-caught sockeye salmon is the richest salmon source of astaxanthin, partly because wild-caught salmon have spent their lives consuming microalgae, the purest form of astaxanthin. Farmed salmon, on the other hand, have only been getting a commercially-made, synthetic version. In other words, opt for the wild-caught salmon whenever you can.   

### Phaffia yeast
The red [yeast](https://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1017/S0043933919000187 "yeast") *Phaffia rhodozyma* is another natural source of astaxanthin. It has activities approximately 10 times stronger than that of other carotenoids.  
### Green algae
*Haematococcus pluvialis* is a type of [green microalgae](https://link.springer.com/article/10.1007/s002530051061 "green microalgae") that accumulates high levels of astaxanthin content under certain conditions. These conditions include: high salinity, nitrogen deficiency, high temperatures, and light. Such algae is the main way people get their astaxanthin intake, aside from seafood-derived sources.   

### Shrimp
Crustaceans like [shrimp](https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC8751436/ "shrimp") can be an excellent food source of astaxanthin.

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## Do carrots have astaxanthin?
[Carrots](https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3550877/ "Carrots") do contain dietary beta-carotene, which is an antioxidant that your body then converts into vitamin A. Carrots get their orange color from beta carotene. Carrots are also sources of  alpha-carotene and lutein, which are other types of carotenoids that boost carrots’ nutritional value. That said, carrots are not a source of astaxanthin.  

They are, however, great sources of fiber, vitamin K, potassium, and antioxidants. As such, carrots are known to promote eye health and cardiovascular health. 

## When to consider taking an astaxanthin supplement
Reading through the above list of natural sources, you may have noticed a few things. First of all, they’re not super easy to find. You don’t typically sit down at a restaurant and find Phaffia yeast on the menu, for example. Secondly, the foods that are more widely available tend to be on the expensive side. This isn’t to say you shouldn’t have them once in a while. But if you’re looking for a more cost-effective, tailored way to boost your astaxanthin intake, then supplements might be the path for you.  
As mentioned above, the [Care/of astaxanthin supplement](https://www.takecareof.com/products/astaxanthin_6 "Care/of astaxanthin supplement") is top notch – third-party tested, certified C.L.E.A.N., gluten-free, vegan-friendly, non-GMO, and containing no unnecessary fillers. Our astaxanthin is proven effective and can support eye health, skin health, cardiovascular health, and brain health, as well as athletic performance and recovery.

As always, you should consult a medical professional before adding any new supplement to your routine. Talk to your doctor and come up with a supplement plan that’s right for you!   

## Does astaxanthin come with any side effects? 
As with most anything, astaxanthin can sometimes come with [side effects](https://takecareof.com/articles/astaxanthin-side-effects). 
More studies are needed to discover the benefits and side effects of astaxanthin. But from what we know now, astaxanthin is considered safe and unlikely to produce any noticeable side effects. Astaxanthin is best absorbed with healthy fat. 

## Key takeaways 
Astaxanthin is getting more attention in the nutrition world – and for good reason! It’s rightly been called a “superstar antioxidant.” It’s even been found to be up to 6,000 times more potent than vitamin C in this regard! 

Astaxanthin is found naturally in a variety of sources, mainly of the seafood variety; it’s richly found in shrimp, [krill](https://www.takecareof.com/articles/krill-oil-vs-fish-oil) and salmon, for example. 

Astaxanthin has been shown to support brain health, cardiovascular health, skin health, and eye health. If you’re looking to boost your astaxanthin intake, the natural sources listed above might be useful. That said, it’s not easy to get many of these natural sources, and eating wild-caught salmon on a regular basis can be beyond what many people’s budgets can handle. If that’s the case, you might want to look into an astaxanthin supplement. Taking a supplement can also ensure that you’re getting the right dose. 

As always, talk to a medical professional before adding any new supplements to your routine.

Astaxanthin is a powerful antioxidant. Let’s take a look at some natural sources of it. 

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