Astaxanthin

Evidence: ★★★☆☆ · Status: OTC Supplement

💡 Did you know? Astaxanthin is the red pigment that turns salmon and flamingos pink — and it's one of the most potent antioxidants known.

In plain English

One of nature's strongest antioxidants (what makes salmon pink). Protects cell membranes, skin against UV, and mitochondria.

How it works

Carotenoid antioxidant (from algae) that spans cell membranes and quenches singlet oxygen far more potently than vitamin E; activates NRF2, supports mitochondria, skin, and eye health.

Molecular target & official sources

Astaxanthin (PubChem CID 5281224) · Examine: astaxanthin

Protocol

4–12 mg/day with fat.

Bottom line

Potent, safe antioxidant with skin and mitochondrial benefits.

Helps with: Endurance · Live Longer · Skin & Hair

The human evidence

A fat-soluble carotenoid antioxidant; the best human evidence is for skin (UV resilience, elasticity), with smaller studies suggesting modest endurance and eye-fatigue benefit. Very safe.

Stacks with

Take with a fatty meal or omega-3 for absorption.

Shares a pathway — often paired with: Omega-3 (EPA/DHA), Metformin, Statins (Atorvastatin/Rosuvastatin), Magnesium.

Availability & where to buy

Available over the counter. Widely available OTC — e.g. iHerb (ships worldwide); in Singapore also Guardian, Watsons, GNC, Shopee / Lazada. Look for a third-party-tested / GMP mark and check the dose per serving. Moderate — ~S$20–40/month for a quality algae-derived source.

How it works: the Mitochondria pathway →

Used in these protocols

Common questions

Does Astaxanthin actually work?

Human-evidence rating: 3 of 5. Potent, safe antioxidant with skin and mitochondrial benefits.

How do you take Astaxanthin?

4–12 mg/day with fat.

Is Astaxanthin legal or approved?

Regulatory status: OTC Supplement.