Overview
Astaxanthin is a potent carotenoid antioxidant derived from microalgae, known for its ability to combat oxidative stress and inflammation. Clinical evidence suggests that astaxanthin supplementation increases plasma antioxidant capacity, significantly reducing markers of lipid peroxidation such as malondialdehyde (MDA) and isoprostane [2][8]. It has demonstrated beneficial effects on metabolic health, including improved glucose metabolism, reduced systolic blood pressure, and decreased visceral fat in individuals with type 2 diabetes [4]. Additionally, astaxanthin supplementation at 6 mg/day increased glutathione levels, a key endogenous antioxidant, in active young men [3]. In patients with rheumatoid arthritis, 20 mg/day for 8 weeks significantly improved clinical outcomes and reduced inflammatory markers including CRP, ESR, and IL-6 [6]. Doses ranging from 1 to 20 mg/day have been safely used in human trials without significant adverse effects [2][4][6][5].
Dosage Guide
Therapeutic Doses
For treatment of specific conditions
Upper Intake Limit
Maximum safe daily intake
24 mg— Up to 24 mg/day has been approved in some countries; no adverse events reported in trials up to 20 mg/day for 8 weeks
Special Forms
Alternative forms for specific needs
Preferred form due to superior bioavailability and safety profile compared to synthetic
Common in algal supplements; hydrolyzed in gut to free form for absorption
Clinical Notes
- Natural astaxanthin has an excellent safety profile with no serious adverse events reported in clinical trials up to 20 mg/day for 8 weeks
- High-dose supplementation (≥12 mg/day) is well-tolerated but long-term safety data are limited
- May have additive effects with other antioxidants or antihypertensive agents; monitor for potential interactions
- No established RDA; dosing is based on clinical trial evidence for specific health outcomes
Research
1 mg and 3 mg/day of astaxanthin significantly increased plasma carotenoid concentrations in middle-aged and senior subjects after 4–12 weeks
Meta-analysis showed astaxanthin significantly reduced plasma malondialdehyde (SMD -1.32) and isoprostane (SMD -3.10), indicating reduced oxidative stress
6 mg/day for 4 weeks increased glutathione by ~7% in active young men, but did not affect fat oxidation during exercise
8 mg/day for 8 weeks improved adiponectin, reduced triglycerides, VLDL, systolic BP, and visceral fat in type 2 diabetes patients
Review of 87 human studies found no safety concerns with natural astaxanthin, including doses ≥12 mg/day; EFSA proposed ADI of 2 mg/day based on animal data
20 mg/day for 8 weeks reduced CRP, ESR, IL-6, and improved clinical symptoms and quality of life in rheumatoid arthritis patients
Meta-analysis of 14 RCTs showed astaxanthin improved glycemic control, blood pressure, and inflammatory markers like CRP
5 mg and 20 mg/day for 3 weeks reduced MDA and isoprostane in overweight and obese adults, indicating reduced oxidative stress
