Superfoods as well as supernutriens are now a very popular partner being taken by people when it comes to their overall health. Such products can help in optimizing a person’s physical performance. Among the same products that people are now popularly using is the Astaxanthin. It comes with several health benefits. It is a product designated by FDA as GRAS. It is an assurance that the product will not be toxic to the body. However, these do not mean that you should no longer be aware of the possible Astaxanthin side effects.
The product comes with side effects as well. However, although experiencing these side effects is rare, it is still important that you are aware of them. This way, if ever any of these occurred to you, you have an idea what caused it. You will also know what to do once any of it occurs and that is to go to your doctor.
The Potential Side Effects of Astaxanthin
There are some people who become exposed to Astaxanthin without them knowing it. This may either cause allergic reactions if the person has an allergy to it or experience the associated side effects. But, the chances of these side effects from occurring are low. If it did, you might experience the following:
It lowers the blood pressure. For some, this effect may be a benefit for them, especially to those with high blood pressure. However, it can be an issue for those who have low blood pressure. Also, Astaxanthin can only be beneficial to people with high blood pressure if they are not taking a medication or even supplement for this. In case you take Astaxanthin and you are also under medication or supplements, this may trigger your blood pressure to drop dangerously. For those who have low blood pressure, it is necessary for them to be careful with the dosage. Or, they should just opt to stop taking the supplement.
Hormonal changes are also among the Astaxanthin side effects. The supplement may react negatively with the hormone-altering medications if you are taking one. It also interacts with herbs, including saw palmetto, black cohosh and vitex. These are herbs that are commonly used in altering the body’s hormone level.
It can lead to breast enlargement for those men who are taking the supplement. It is not recommended for pregnant women to take the supplement because of its potential effect of changing the body’s hormone level. If they do, dangerous effects may occur to both the mother and the developing fetus.
Astaxanthin can cause allergic reactions as well. People who are allergic lobster and shrimp or any other seafood are prohibited to take the supplement. That is because there is a big possibility that these people may also be allergic to the supplement. The same should be remembered by people who know that they are allergic to carotenoids.
In any case, it is recommended for you to visit your doctor to know whether taking it would be safe for you or not. The allergic reactions that you should be aware of include difficulty in breathing and hives. Knowing these would help, especially in instances when the consumer did not know that they can be allergic to it. With the knowledge, you would not be at a loss of what is happening to you and you will know what to do next.