Astaxanthin, goji berries and chlorella: Antioxidant and nutrient powerhouses that support overall well-being
- Superfoods help support good health beyond basic nutrition. They’re packed with powerful antioxidants and phytonutrients that help maintain good overall well-being.
- Astaxanthin is a powerful antioxidant that fights free radicals to protect cells from oxidative damage.
- Chlorella is a green algae that is rich in protein, iron, vitamin C and omega-3s. It’s the ideal supplement for people on plant-based diets.
- Goji berries are an ancient health secret. Used for thousands of years in Traditional Chinese Medicine, goji berries can support optimal health with their high nutrient and antioxidant content.
- Incorporating astaxanthin, chlorella and goji berries into a balanced diet can provide science-backed benefits for better overall wellness.
For modern consumers, maintaining optimal health requires more than just a balanced diet; it calls for nutrient-dense foods that go above and beyond basic nutrition. Superfoods are nature’s most potent health boosters, packed with antioxidants, vitamins and minerals that can support overall health.
Antioxidant and nutrient powerhouses like astaxanthin, goji berries and chlorella not only support optimal nutrition but also offer plenty of health benefits for your overall well-being. (h/t to Health.com)
Astaxanthin: The most powerful antioxidant in nature
Astaxanthin is a vibrant red-orange pigment found in certain marine algae, salmon, krill and shrimp. As part of the carotenoid family — the same group of phytochemicals that gives carrots their bright color — astaxanthin is considered to be the most potent antioxidant known to science.
Antioxidants help neutralize harmful free radicals, the unstable molecules that harm healthy cells. Astaxanthin is capable of crossing the blood-brain barrier, conferring its protective benefits even to the brain. Studies suggest that astaxanthin’s ability to combat oxidative stress makes it a powerful ally for supporting healthy skin and overall wellness.
Available in capsules, soft gels and powder form, astaxanthin is fat-soluble, meaning it’s best absorbed when taken with a meal containing healthy fats like avocado or olive oil. A daily dose of four to 12 milligrams (mg) is recommended for general health benefits.
Chlorella: The green superfood best for plant-based diets
Chlorella is a single-celled freshwater alga celebrated for its dense nutritional profile. Unlike spirulina, its blue-green cousin, chlorella has a tough cell wall that must be broken down to make it more digestible.
Chlorella is rich in essential nutrients, such as:
- Protein – Chlorella is 50 to 60 percent protein and contains all nine essential amino acids, making it an ideal supplement for plant-based diets.
- Iron and vitamin C – Iron and vitamin C are a powerful combo for supporting good health.
- Omega-3s and antioxidants – These nutrients are known to protect the body against oxidative stress.
Available in tablets, powders and extracts, chlorella can be added to smoothies or taken as a daily supplement. Starting with a small dose (one to two grams) and gradually increasing as your body adjusts is highly recommended.
Goji berries: The ancient superfood for good health
For over 2,000 years, goji berries (Lycium barbarum) have been a staple in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), prized for their ability to support overall well-being. These bright red berries are loaded with antioxidants, particularly zeaxanthin, an antioxidant naturally found in the human eyes whose potent antioxidant activities contribute to overall wellness.
Studies suggest that drinking goji berry juice can support healthy stamina as well as a positive mood. Participants in one study also reported better sleep and reduced feelings of fatigue following daily consumption of goji berries. The beta-carotene in goji berries have also been reported to support healthy skin.
Versatile and nutritious, goji berries can be eaten dried, blended into smoothies or brewed as tea. For a steady boost, consuming a small handful (10 to 30 g) or a glass of goji juice every day can deliver noticeable benefits.
Astaxanthin, chlorella and goji berries each bring something extraordinary to the table when it comes to supporting good health. Incorporating these antioxidant and nutrient powerhouses into a healthy daily routine can be a simple yet powerful way to support long-term health.
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