Recent study examined the effect of AstaReal® Astaxanthin on heart health and performance of first responders
A recent randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled, crossover study conducted at the Texas A&M University in the USA, suggests that supplementation with AstaReal® Astaxanthin may improve markers of cardiometabolic health and tactical performance among firefighters.[1] The results of this pioneering research offer promising insights into the potential of this powerful antioxidant to improve the first responders’ health.
Firefighters endure some of the most physically demanding and hazardous conditions that may lead to an increased risk of cardiovascular disease and premature mortality caused by inflammation and oxidative stress. In the recent study by Dr Gonzalez et al., published in the Journal of the International Society of Sports Nutrition, the impact of supplementation with 12mg AstaReal® Astaxanthin daily for four weeks on inflammation, oxidative stress, cardiometabolic health, exercise capacity and occupation-related performance was evaluated in 15 male firefighters. Participants followed a standardized eight-week strength and conditioning programme throughout the whole study. In addition, before and after each treatment, they performed an incremental maximal cardiopulmonary exercise test, and a fire ground test consisting of nine firefighter occupational tasks. The results showed that astaxanthin supplementation may attenuate the increase in inflammatory response to intense exercise. In fact, less increase in stress hormone cortisol, uric acid and interleukin-1β – a pro-inflammatory marker – was observed in the astaxanthin supplementation phase during fire suppressive activities compared to when the participants ingested a placebo.
Additionally, astaxanthin intake increased the ventilatory anaerobic threshold, suggesting its potential benefits for exercise efficiency. These results show that astaxanthin supplementation helps mediate occupation-related inflammation in response to high-intensity, short-duration exercise in firefighters, and highlight its potential benefits for consumers seeking effective supplements for active nutrition and performance.
AstaReal® Astaxanthin, a natural carotenoid and powerful antioxidant derived from the microalgae Haematoccocus pluvialis, offers valuable protection to both muscles and the cardiovascular system. Astaxanthin may support efficient energy production and its utilisation through reducing oxidative stress and exercise-induced inflammation in the muscles, and protecting mitochondria – the cell’s powerhouses. The recent study underscores the importance of nutritional interventions in supporting the health of individuals in high-risk occupations, and suggests that astaxanthin may be a valuable addition to dietary strategies aimed at enhancing both health outcomes and occupational performance.
[1] Gonzalez DE, Dickerson BL, Johnson SE, Woodruff KE, Leonard M, Yoo C, et al. Impact of astaxanthin supplementation on markers of cardiometabolic health and tactical performance among firefighters. J Int Soc Sports Nutr. 21(1):2427751. doi: 10.1080/15502783.2024.2427751.
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