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You are what you eat. Does this sound familiar? I can almost hear my mother’s voice loud and clear watching her add green beans to my plate. Turns out this statement holds some truth. Flamingos are pink, however, they are born with grey feathers. After birth, they begin eating brine shrimp, which feeds on microscopic algae. This is responsible for turning their feathers pink. So how does this work?
Carotenoids.There are over 750 carotenoids and the one found in algae, shrimp, lobster, crab and salmon is called Astaxanthin. Beta carotene is another example of a carotenoid which is responsible for the orange color of carrots. Not only do carotenoids act as a food coloring, they also provide numerous health benefits.
Astaxanthin is an antioxidant with broad health implications and unlike many other antioxidants, that although are antioxidants they still could become pro oxidant such as Vitamins E,C,D and selenium.
We know that not only is seafood a delicacy but it is as well as a nutrient- rich food. On top of containing the powerful antioxidant astaxanthin, it as well serves as a good source of protein and provides an abundance of other vitamins and minerals.
Astaxanthin in seafood can help relieve pain and inflammation.
- It works by reducing the compounds that drive many chronic diseases. Some say it works like a prescription analgesic despite the fact that it is 100% natural.
Promotes Heart Health
- Through the rich source of omega – 3 fatty acids, cardiovascular events can be significantly reduced. To consume omega- 3 fatty acids, some may prefer through supplemental capsule, however, scientists prefer the actual consumption of seafood.
Healthy Vision
- Astaxanthin has the ability to cross through a barrier and reach the retina. This ability helps all eye health involving at the retina. Most eye conditions occur at the retina such as macular degeneration, eye strain and fatigue, and diabetic retinopathy. The omega-3 component helps night vision.
Fights Fatigued Muscles
- Astaxanthin is thought to be what allows fish to swim powerfully upstream. Just like fish, pure natural astaxanthin is indicated for recovering muscles, improving endurance, enhancing strength, and improving energy levels.
Pretty skin and Sunscreen protection
- Seafood helps preserve moisture, and helps with the appearance of fine wrinkles and spots or freckles. The glow of your skin is affected more through your diet than what you apply directly to it. Astaxanthin also reduces damage caused by UV radiation.
On top of these benefits of the astaxanthin containing seafood, there are many other bodily function benefits. Astaxanthin may also help protect the nervous and immune system from oxidative stress, as we mentioned above through its very powerful antioxidant powers. However, with this information more research is needed to fully confirm.
To support heart health specifically, the American Heart Association recommends eating about 2 servings of fatty fish per week. Some other research has said that the equivalent of 4 to 12 mg per day in the diet or supplement form is best. This is not only for heart health but also the reproductive systems, skin health, healthy eyes, and muscles.