Product Overview

Sports Research Astaxanthin is a premium antioxidant supplement derived from microalgae Haematococcus pluvialis. This potent carotenoid is known for its superior antioxidant properties, being up to 6,000 times stronger than vitamin C and 800 times more powerful than CoQ10.

The supplement comes in easy-to-swallow softgel capsules, each containing 12mg of pure astaxanthin. Sports Research has established itself as a trusted brand in the supplement industry, focusing on third-party testing and quality assurance.

Key Features

  • 12mg of pure astaxanthin per softgel
  • Derived from Haematococcus pluvialis microalgae
  • Third-party tested for purity and potency
  • Non-GMO and gluten-free
  • Made in cGMP certified facility
  • 60 softgels per bottle (2-month supply)

Ingredients Analysis

Astaxanthin (12mg)
Primary active ingredient
Coconut Oil
Carrier oil for absorption
Gelatin (Bovine)
Softgel capsule
Glycerin
Softgel plasticizer
Purified Water
Capsule formation

Ingredient Quality

The astaxanthin is sourced from Haematococcus pluvialis, which is considered the gold standard for natural astaxanthin production. The inclusion of coconut oil as a carrier enhances bioavailability, as astaxanthin is fat-soluble and requires lipids for optimal absorption.

Benefits & Effects

Scientifically Supported Benefits

  • Powerful Antioxidant Protection: Neutralizes free radicals and reduces oxidative stress
  • Eye Health Support: May help protect against macular degeneration and eye strain
  • Cardiovascular Health: Supports healthy cholesterol levels and circulation
  • Skin Health: May improve skin elasticity and reduce UV damage
  • Exercise Recovery: Reduces muscle fatigue and speeds recovery
  • Brain Health: Crosses blood-brain barrier for cognitive support

Expected Timeline

2-4 weeks: Initial antioxidant effects and reduced oxidative stress markers

6-8 weeks: Noticeable improvements in exercise recovery and skin health

3+ months: Long-term cardiovascular and eye health benefits

Pros & Cons

Advantages

  • High-quality, natural astaxanthin source
  • Optimal 12mg dosage per serving
  • Third-party tested for purity
  • Enhanced with coconut oil for absorption
  • Non-GMO and gluten-free
  • Reputable brand with good manufacturing practices
  • Competitive pricing for the quality

Disadvantages

  • Contains bovine gelatin (not vegetarian)
  • May cause slight orange tinting of skin with long-term use
  • Requires consistent daily use for optimal benefits
  • Not suitable for those with algae allergies
  • Results may take several weeks to notice

Dosage & Usage

Recommended Dosage

Standard Dose: 1 softgel (12mg) daily with a meal containing fat

Athletic Use: 1-2 softgels daily, depending on training intensity

Best Practices

  • Take with a meal containing healthy fats for optimal absorption
  • Consistent daily timing helps maintain steady blood levels
  • Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight
  • Allow 4-6 weeks of consistent use to evaluate effectiveness

Safety Considerations

Astaxanthin is generally well-tolerated with minimal side effects. Some users may experience mild digestive upset if taken on an empty stomach. The supplement may cause a slight orange tinting of the skin with prolonged high-dose use (similar to beta-carotene), which is harmless and reversible.