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Longevity is determined by a number of factors, but none are more important than lifestyle and genetics.
Natural sources of astaxanthin have been proven to be the most effective for health. One of the many benefits of an antioxidant is its role in the prevention and treatment of chronic diseases. In recent years, research has shown that it may also play a role in prolonging life.
A new study evaluated the benefits of astaxanthin from three different sources.
The authors looked at the natural form of the antioxidant, which is a microalgae that grows ubiquitously in fresh water, a synthetic version, and a genetically engineered version.
According to research results, the natural form demonstrated 14-90 times greater antioxidant activity than the synthetic version. Natural sources of astaxanthin are yeast and algae, but microorganisms are also found in some types of fish.
How does astaxanthin affect lifespan?
Astaxanthin activated the FOXO3 gene in mice.
According to the obtained data, the expression of the longevity gene in heart tissue increased to 90 percent.
In an experimental study, rodents were fed either a normal diet or a diet containing a low or high dose of astaxanthin for two weeks. After the intervention, the expression levels of FOXO3 in the brain, skeletal muscles, blood and heart tissues were analyzed.
"Animals fed large amounts of the astaxanthin compound had a significant increase in the activation of the FOXO3 gene in their heart tissue."
They added that a similar but slightly more modest activation was also observed in the blood.
Simply put, FOXO3 is a master regulator that increases the production of genes that fight the signs of aging. In particular, it involves the production of genes that fight cellular aging, such as damage to DNA, proteins, lipids, and the loss of stem cell function.
