In our quest to age well, antioxidants can be a powerful tool. Oxidation is a chemical process that results in the production of free radicals that damage our cells. Damaged cells speed up skin aging.
Antioxidants are the scavengers fighting the free radicals. That protects the cells by preventing damage and destruction. Some free radicals have beneficial purposes, but the goal is to maintain a healthy balance in your body. We naturally produce antioxidants; however, the primary sources are from diet and supplements.
The aging process naturally slows down cell turnover, but there are also external forces that contribute. Sun exposure and smoking both cause oxidative stress. When you sunburn your skin, you are immediately damaging the cells on your epidermis and triggering both oxidative damage and inflammation. Repeated sun exposure contributes to pre-mature aging of the skin. Antioxidants, such as astaxanthin, is believed to increase skin hydration, reduce age spots and smooth fine lines.
Astaxanthin (pronounced aste-zan-thin), known as the “king of carotenoids,” is from the beta-carotene family and has powerful antioxidant properties. It is sourced from lobster, shrimp, crab shells, algae, and salmon. The astaxanthin used in Gut to Glow is from marine sourced algae. It is believed to yield these benefits by reducing the effects that result from repeated ultraviolet (UV-A) exposure.
Astaxanthin exerts 40- to 100-fold greater anti-oxidative activity compared to beta-carotene and thereby has greater effects on reducing oxidative damage in the skin triggered by UV-A wavelength of light from sun exposure.
Consistent supplementation of astaxanthin will produce the best results. Absorption of astaxanthin is assisted when consumed in the presence of dietary fats or oils. Results from consistent use are typically experienced within the first eight weeks, with continued improvement over longer time periods.
