Synopsis

Source of validity: Scientific
Rating (out of 5): 2

Astaxanthin, a naturally occurring carotenoid found in microalgae, yeast, salmon, trout, krill, shrimp, and crayfish, has attracted interest for its potent antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. Its use in supporting or treating colitis—particularly inflammatory bowel diseases (IBD) such as ulcerative colitis and Crohn’s disease—has been investigated in several preclinical studies. Animal models, mainly in mice, have demonstrated that astaxanthin supplementation can reduce colonic inflammation, decrease oxidative stress, and improve histological features of colitis. Mechanistically, these effects are believed to stem from astaxanthin’s ability to inhibit pro-inflammatory cytokine production (such as TNF-α, IL-1β, and IL-6), suppress NF-κB signaling, and enhance endogenous antioxidant defenses. However, direct scientific validation in human subjects remains very limited. Only a handful of small-scale human trials or case reports are available, and none provide conclusive evidence for astaxanthin’s efficacy in treating colitis. Most available data are derived from laboratory or animal studies, which, while promising, do not always translate to clinical benefit in humans. Thus, while the scientific rationale and preclinical evidence are supportive, robust clinical trials are lacking, and the overall level of evidence is rated as low to moderate (2/5). Astaxanthin is not part of standard therapy for colitis, and its use should be considered experimental pending further research.

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