FAQ - Astaxanthin

What is Astaxanthin?

Astaxanthin is a powerful natural carotenoid pigment found in certain plants and marine animals. Often referred to as "the Queen of Carotenoids," astaxanthin is recognized as one of the most potent antioxidants in nature, capable of protecting our cells from damage by free radicals. It is particularly important because, unlike other antioxidants, astaxanthin never becomes a pro-oxidant in the body and thus cannot cause harmful oxidation. It is cultivated in controlled freshwater ponds and contains no fish or shellfish by-products.

Why should I take Gandalf Astaxanthin?  

Gandalf Astaxanthin has powerful antioxidant benefits and has been clinically validated in human studies as safe and natural for:

    • Eye and brain health
    • Joint and tendon health
    • Cardiovascular health
    • Skin health
    • Recovery after exercise
    • Fatigue
    • Immune system support

Why is Astaxanthin such an impressive antioxidant?

Gandalf astaxanthin is by far the most powerful carotenoid antioxidant for free radical elimination. It is 65 times more potent than vitamin C, 54 times more potent than beta-carotene, and 14 times more potent than vitamin E. It crosses the blood-brain barrier and the blood-retinal barrier, providing antioxidants and anti-inflammatory protection to your eyes, brain, and central nervous system. It is also a powerful UVB absorber and reduces DNA damage. Additionally, it has no adverse effects or toxicity.

Astaxanthin is one of the most potent antioxidants in the world; it is 5,000 times more powerful than vitamin C and significantly more powerful than other well-known antioxidants such as green tea and CoQ10.

How does astaxanthin help prevent aging?

Essentially, aging is akin to rusting. We can help prevent rusting by eating fruits and vegetables and taking supplements like BioAstin Astaxanthin. The nutrients found in these foods act as "anti-rust" agents. For example, if you take an apple or an avocado and expose it to air for a few hours, the fruit will start to brown. What happens is that it oxidizes or "rusts." But if you sprinkle antioxidant-rich lemon juice on the fruit, it won't rust.

Astaxanthin is one of the most powerful antioxidants in the world; it is 5,000 times more potent than vitamin C (found in lemons) and significantly more powerful than other well-known antioxidants like green tea and CoQ10.

When will I notice the benefits?

Astaxanthin takes a couple weeks of supplementation before the benefits are noticed. It does not work overnight like a prescription drug but rather bioaccumulates in the body. With a half-life of roughly 16 hours, regular supplementation will build up adequate levels over a couple of weeks.

When should I take Astaxanthin?

Astaxanthin a fat-soluble supplement, best taken with a meal, especially one with plenty of fats. Most Astaxanthin comes in oil based capsules for improved absorption, but it is still recommended to be taken with food. Time of the day does not matter. 

What is the difference between natural and synthetic astaxanthin ?

Natural astaxanthin from Haematoccous Pluvialis algae is a far superior form of Astaxanthin compared to the synthetic versions derived from petrochemicals. Up to 20 times stronger as an antioxidant, the natural astaxanthin can provide a much greater health benefit than the synthetic versions. Synthetic astaxanthin has not had the extensive safety and health testing as natural. It’s made in the laboratory in a very elaborate process that turns it from oil into astaxanthin. Whereas Gandalf Astaxanthin's infusion process is the cleanest, gentlest and most natural extraction method available today.

Can children take Astaxanthin?  

There are not specific trials in children, but since this is a natural product and is commonly eaten in many fish and seafood species, there is no reason to suspect that it would be harmful to anyone. The only disclaimer required for astaxanthin is that women who are pregnant or nursing should consult their healthcare practitioner before using.  We suggest that you also consult with your healthcare provider before giving to your children.

Can pregnant or breastfeeding women take astaxanthin?

It is recommended that pregnant women consult their healthcare professional before taking astaxanthin. Although astaxanthin is a natural antioxidant with a good safety profile, each pregnancy is unique, and it is important to ensure that any supplement is appropriate for you and your baby.

What is the difference between Canadian and Hawaiian astaxanthin?

Hawaiian Astaxanthin (30 capsules at 12 mg): Hawaiian astaxanthin is cultivated in a controlled environment in Hawaii, benefiting from intense sunlight and unique climatic conditions to achieve a high concentration of astaxanthin. Each capsule provides 12 mg of astaxanthin, offering a higher dose of this powerful antioxidant, which supports cardiovascular health, immunity, and muscle recovery.

Canadian Astaxanthin (60 capsules at 4 mg):  In contrast, Canadian astaxanthin is extracted and purified in facilities in Canada, using natural sources rich in this potent antioxidant. Each vegetarian capsule contains 4 mg of astaxanthin, a carotenoid pigment beneficial for eye health, skin health, and protection against free radicals.

Both sources of astaxanthin offer distinct benefits based on their geographical origin and production methods, allowing consumers to choose according to their specific antioxidant needs and product origin preference.

What is the recommended dose of Canadian and Hawaiian astaxanthin?

Canadian Astaxanthin:

  • Adults: 1 capsule, 1 to 2 times per day

Hawaiian Astaxanthin:

  • Adults: 1 capsule per day

Can I take astaxanthin and spirulina together?

Yes. Spirulina and astaxanthin work well together because they offer different benefits.

Can you give astaxanthin to your pets?

Yes. Astaxanthin is beneficial for dogs and cats. The dose should be adjusted based on the animal's weight. For small pets weighing less than 20 pounds, you can puncture a BioAstin capsule and squeeze a few drops onto their food.

Is astaxanthin effective for skin health?

Yes, astaxanthin is often recognized for its benefits for skin health. As a powerful antioxidant, astaxanthin helps protect the skin from damage caused by free radicals and UV rays, which can contribute to reducing signs of aging. It also helps improve skin elasticity, reduce the appearance of wrinkles, and promote adequate hydration. Some studies suggest that astaxanthin may also help alleviate redness and skin irritation.

Allergic reactions for seafood vs Gandalf Hawaiian Astaxanthin?

Astaxanthin comes from a fresh water microalgae called Haematococcus. Haematococcus does not produce saxotoxins or other marine toxins which make people allergic to shellfish and some other sea foods.

Vitamin D and the use of Astaxanthin?

A human clinical trial has shown that astaxanthin helps protect the skin from UV damage. Hawaiian astaxanthin achieves this by neutralizing the free radicals that form when the skin is exposed to UV rays. By neutralizing free radicals, astaxanthin helps to stop damage to healthy skin tissue and reduce the inflammatory reaction of the skin that causes redness. High SPF sunscreens absorb UV rays before they reach the skin. As a result, these sunscreens can prevent the skin from producing vitamin D. This is not the case with Hawaiian astaxanthin; UV rays are absorbed by the skin, but their harmful effects are attenuated. Vitamin D production by the skin, induced by UV radiation, should not be reduced or affected in any way by Hawaiian astaxanthin users.