Consider astaxanthin (asta-ZAN-thin), an antioxidant that’s gaining popularity in the world of wellness. But before taking the supplement, it’s a good idea to understand the possible side effects, along with how much to take. Let’s explore what you can expect from taking astaxanthin, below. And get this: Astaxanthin is estimated to be 6,000 and 100 times stronger than vitamins C and E, respectively.* (We don’t want to forget, however, that vitamin C and E are also vital parts of the collagen synthesis process—so even if they have less antioxidant potency, they’re still very important for skin function, not to mention other essential roles in our body.) After all, it’s not a competition. The more diverse our nutrient and phytonutrient intake and array are, the better. But what makes astaxanthin so special, exactly? According to a 2018 comprehensive review article, it comes down to its molecular structure. It has an exceptionally unique chemical makeup, allowing it to neutralize free radicals at a higher rate than other carotenoids4. Astaxanthin can also enter the layers of cell membranes, ultimately helping to protect the cell from oxidative stress.* Still, there are a few things to keep in mind. Consider the following potential side effects: You can also get astaxanthin naturally through salmon, but you’d need to eat a lot of it every day to get the recommended amount. One salmon filet contains about half a milligram of astaxanthin, meaning you’d have to chow down on 12 filets in order to get those 6 milligrams. Needless to say, that’s more salmon than what the average would (or could!) eat, so a supplement is way more practical. It’s also a more economical approach, and you receive the astaxanthin benefits minus the potential contaminants from large quantities of fish (e.g., heavy metals).
