Astaxanthin: A Potential Therapeutic Agent in Cardiovascular Disease
2011

Astaxanthin: A Potential Therapeutic Agent in Cardiovascular Disease

publication Evidence: moderate

Author Information

Author(s): Fassett Robert G., Coombes Jeff S.

Primary Institution: Renal Research Royal Brisbane and Women’s Hospital and The University of Queensland

Hypothesis

Astaxanthin may have a potential therapeutic role in atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease due to its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties.

Conclusion

Astaxanthin shows promise in reducing oxidative stress and inflammation, which are linked to cardiovascular disease, but its effectiveness in humans remains unproven.

Supporting Evidence

  • Astaxanthin has been shown to reduce biomarkers of oxidative stress and inflammation.
  • Experimental studies indicate that astaxanthin protects the myocardium in animal models.
  • No adverse events have been reported in clinical studies involving astaxanthin.

Takeaway

Astaxanthin is a natural substance that might help keep your heart healthy by fighting off bad stuff in your body, but we need more studies to be sure.

Methodology

This review summarizes existing studies on astaxanthin's effects on cardiovascular disease, focusing on its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties.

Limitations

No clinical cardiovascular studies in humans have been completed or reported, and the safety of high doses in humans is not established.

Digital Object Identifier (DOI)

10.3390/md9030447

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