FAQ - Astaxanthin

What is Astaxanthin?

Astaxanthin is known as the King of Carotenoids, the strongest antioxidant found naturally and most powerful supplement mother nature has to offer.  It is the red pigment color found in salmon, shrimp, crab and even the pink color in flamingos. Astaxanthin is derived from microalgae called Haematococcus pluvialis. It is grown in controlled, fresh water ponds and contains no fish or shellfish bi-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 from exercise

Why is Astaxanthin such an impressive antioxidant?

Gandalf Astaxanthin is by far the most powerful carotenoid antioxidant when it comes to free radical scavenging.  It is 65 times more powerful than Vitamin C, 54 times more powerful than beta-carotene and 14 times more powerful than Vitamin E.  It crosses the blood-brain barrier and the blood-retinal barrier bringing antioxidants and anti-inflammatory protection to your eyes, brain and central nervous system, it is a potent UVB absorber and reduces DNA damage.  And there are no adverse reactions and no toxicity.

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.