Haematococcus is a type of microgreen algae found in the Arctic. It inhabits the seas and lakes, including the snowfields of the Arctic, and is normally green, but has the characteristic that it changes color to red depending on the air, influence, and water conditions. Haematococcus contains a large amount of astaxanthin, which is widely distributed in crustaceans, and is known to have various health benefits such as eye health and antioxidant action. Now, let’s take a look at the main effects, side effects, and various information related to how to eat Haematococcus one by one.
Haematococcus main benefits
1. Eye health
The most representative component of Haematococcus is astaxanthin. Astaxanthin is a type of carotenoid, and in general, it exists in the form of a pigment protein bound to a protein. This astaxanthin component is said to be able to easily penetrate the blood-retinal barrier, which is difficult for various bacteria and waste products, as well as beneficial antioxidants to pass through. These properties of astaxanthin are known to be effective in increasing the capillary blood flow in the retina and to help improve eye fatigue and prevent vision loss.
According to a study conducted in Japan, when 6 mg of astaxanthin was taken daily for one month, not only improved focus control, but also reduced eye fatigue by about 54%. In addition, the astaxanthin component in Haematococcus also has the effect of suppressing inflammation in the eye, and it is said that it can help prevent various eye diseases caused by excessive inflammation.
2. Antioxidant effect
Excessive free radicals are well known as the main culprit for accelerating the aging of the body as well as lowering the immune function. Astaxanthin, which is abundant in Haematococcus, is well-known as the best antioxidant in existence. It is said that it has a strong effect in reducing oxidative stress caused by free radicals as it has an excellent action in antioxidant action that protects cells from free radicals and prevents oxidation. In addition, Haematococcus binds to the retina and removes free radicals that promote aging, and is known to help slow presbyopia by improving the relaxation rate of eye muscles.
3. Blood circulation
Astaxanthin, which is abundant in Haematococcus, inhibits the formation of blood clots, which are blood clots in the blood vessels, and prevents the oxidation of LDL cholesterol and waste products caused by free radicals to improve the smooth flow of blood. known to work. In addition, astaxanthin has the effect of slowing the aging of brain cells caused by free radicals due to the strong antioxidant power of astaxanthin, and it is also excellent in reducing inflammation in the blood vessels of the brain, helping to prevent cerebrovascular diseases such as stroke and dementia. It is reported to be possible.
How to take Haematococcus and its side effects
Haematococcus can be ingested in the form of powder, pills, or capsules. Haematococcus powder has a unique strong fishy smell, so it is better to drink it in the form of tea, or mix it with plain yogurt or milk rather than just ingesting it. It is said to be consumed by mixing 1 g of Haematococcus extract with 100 g of plain yogurt and 1/3 of a teaspoon. If you add various fruits according to your preference, you can consume it more effectively and easily.
Although Haematococcus has various effects, when consumed in excess, astaxanthin, the main ingredient, temporarily reddens the skin and causes a change in skin color. Therefore, it is recommended to consume about 6g, which is the recommended daily intake. It is also recommended that pregnant and lactating women limit their intake.
