Astaxanthin for improved muscle function and enhanced physical performance

Abstract This chapter describes the reported functions of natural astaxanthin on muscle physiology and performance. The first section discusses oxidative stress in skeletal muscle during exercise and how natural astaxanthin interacts with the endogenous antioxidant system. It further gives an insight into how astaxanthin is incorporated into cell membranes, particularly within the mitochondria, describing the effects seen on mitochondrial functions such as ATP production and fat metabolism. The following section describes the results seen in clinical trials on muscle endurance and muscle strength in populations ranging from well-trained young people to the elderly. This also includes the additional outcomes of natural astaxanthin on exercise in connection with sarcopenia. Finally, it covers the impact of astaxanthin on muscle recovery and the reduction in exercise-induced inflammation.