Astaxanthin may be highly effective against both mental and physical fatigue, according to new research. Japanese research published in the Journal of Clinical Therapeutics & Medicines [1] states that individuals were treated for Astaxanthin for 8 weeks within a double-blind placebo-controlled study.

The purpose of the study was designed to induce fatigue and stress, usually encountered within daily life. Participants were involved in both a mental and a physical challenge to assess their before and after on stressor tests. On the mental challenge, individuals were subjected to timed calculations (the Uchida-Kraepelin test) and the physical test was with a bicycle ergometer. The study reported the following, “Thirty-nine healthy subjects reporting awareness of fatigue were divided onto two groups. The subjects in one group (Astaxanthin group) ingested 12mg of astaxanthin and 20mg of tocotrienols for eight weeks. The other group (control group) ingested 20mg of tocotrienols for eight weeks”.

The visual analogue scale (VAS) also showed that the Astaxanthin significantly reduced any perceived symptoms of mental and physical fatigue, when compared to the placebo. Results from this included clarity of thinking, improved concentration, mood and motivation. While feelings of irritation and body heaviness were considerably reduced.

Within the calculation test, there was an increase in errors in the placebo throughout the second half of the test and this was eliminated in the Astaxanthin group. Supplementing with Astaxanthin was also found to significantly reduce salivary cortisol, a biomarker for stress. In conclusion, the study found that “The results suggest Astaxanthin supplementation has beneficial effects on fatigue encountered in daily life”.

The trial also evaluated the most common type of fatigue experienced throughout our daily routines; both mentally and physically. The medical advisor behind the study said that Astaxanthin can suppress and fight both types of fatigue, while improving performance. Fatigue is a common complaint and this natural ingredient has been shown to improve this common condition.

Previous studies have found evidence that Astaxanthin or algae-sourced carotenoids can support skin health, the anti-ageing process, cardiovascular health, cognitive function, muscle performance, immunity and vision amongst other benefits.

Awareness of the potential benefits of Astaxanthin is strong, especially in the US, and it’s only a matter of time before more studies are taken into consideration. Astaxanthin is a naturally occurring carotenoid and marine based antioxidant that can help to naturally reduce free radicals within the body. It can also significantly reduce the oxidative load within the body by protecting cells from oxidation.

 

Recommended Examples

AstaXanthin™ with DHA is a high-quality natural antioxidant that combines pure DHA* and AstaReal® Astaxanthin. This provides a perfect balance for efficient and effective absorption in the entire body and the brain, where all three play a protective role in helping against mental and physical fatigue. This is the most studied Astaxanthin in the world and may also help to provide protection for the skin against UV radiation.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Source:

[1] Journal of Clinical Therapeutics & Medicines 32.7 (2016): 277-91. (Japanese)

“Randomized controlled trial of the anti-fatigue effects of astaxanthin on mental and physical loads simulating daily life.”

Authors: Hongo, N. et al.

 

*EU Claims on DHA*

Scientific Opinion on the substantiation of health claims related to docosahexaenoic acid (DHA), eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and brain, eye and nerve development, maintenance of normal brain function, maintenance of normal vision, maintenance of normal cardiac function: “maternal health; pregnancy and nursing”, “to fulfil increased omega-3 fatty acids need during pregnancy”, “skin and digestive tract epithelial cells maintenance”, enhancement of mood, “membranes cell structure”, “anti-inflammatory action” and maintenance of normal blood LDL-cholesterol concentrations pursuant to Article 13(1) of Regulation (EC) No 1924/2006.

Research article originally appeared in Nutraingredients-USA