Volume :
4
Issue :
3
Abstract :
Astaxanthin is a xanthophyll carotenoid present in microalgae, fungi, complex plants, seafood, flamingos and quail. It is an antioxidant with anti-inflammatory properties and as such has potential as a therapeutic agent in atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease. Experimental studies demonstrated that astaxanthin protects the myocardium. In a randomized, double blind study on humans it was shown that astaxanthin decreased the low-chronic inflammation by reducing oxidative stress. Earlier studies have confirmed that astaxanthin reduces inflammation by inhibiting activation on the transcription factor NF-kB . Due to astaxanthin’s ability to protect cells from oxidation and its anti-inflammatory capacity, astaxanthin has potential to prevent the development of metabolic diseases. This article reviews the current available scientific literature regarding the effect of astaxanthin from the algae Haematoccus pluvialis on the cardiovascular health.