A study has found that supplementing with AstaReal Astaxanthin could improve biomarkers of cardiometabolic health and reduce inflammation among firefighters.
Researchers largely link these effects to the strong antioxidant potential of astaxanthin as a functional ingredient.
The trial, which was conducted at the Texas A&M University, found that the astaxanthin nutraceutical can reduce levels of inflammatory biomarkers compared with the placebo group during short bursts of intense exercise.
There was also evidence to suggest that astaxanthin supplementation could enhance the ventilatory anaerobic threshold, meaning individuals taking the ingredient daily may experience an improvement in endurance.
This study is available to view in the Journal of the International Society of Sports Nutrition.
Active occupational heart health
Firefighters are exposed to highly hazardous conditions on a regular basis, while also having a physically demanding role.
These stressors could lead to an increased risk of cardiovascular disease and premature ageing, owing to their exposure to high levels of inflammation and oxidative stress.
However, after four weeks of astaxanthin supplementation, it appears that the functional ingredient can work to mitigate this effect.
Throughout the study, participants were required to follow a standardised eight week strength and conditioning programme, with an incremental maximal cardiopulmondary exercise test and fire ground test being performed before and after each treatment.
During ths study period, it was found that supplementing with 12mg of astaxanthin daily could reduce levels of interleukin-1β, uric acid and cortisol — three biomarkers associated with the inflammatory response.
Its ability to enhance a user's ventilatory anaerobic threshold was also noted, suggesting its potential benefits for exercise efficiency.
The potential of astaxanthin in other active populations
Although this study hones in on the potential of astaxanthin in firefighters, the results can likely be extrapolated to other active populations.
By offering protection to the muscles and cardiovascular system, astaxanthin could support active consumers in utilising their energy efficiently, while also working to reduce oxidative stress and exercise-induced muscular inflammation.
The ability of astaxanthin to supporting individuals in high-risk occupations, while also catering to the general consumer population, highlights its versatility as a health-boosting natural ingredient.
AstaReal's Scientific Affairs Manager, Dr Behnaz Shakersain, commented: “The findings of this study contribute to the scientific foundation for natural astaxanthin’s benefits for active people who happen to have physically demanding professions, like firefighters."
"Such clinical evidence may help nutraceutical industry to better address the specific needs of first-responders. AstaReal is dedicated to further study the potential of astaxanthin and its mode and mechanism of action for improving the physical and mental performance of various professionals.”
Reference
1 https://www.tandfonline.com/doi/full/10.1080/15502783.2024.2427751#abstract
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