Astaxanthin’s Potential in Managing Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome 

It is characterised by irregular menstrual cycles, excess male hormone levels, and fluid-filled cysts on the ovaries. Women with PCOS often experience heightened levels of inflammation, which exacerbates insulin resistance, contributes to hormonal imbalances, and worsens symptoms like irregular periods, acne, and weight gain. While lifestyle changes such as diet and exercise are fundamental, supplements can provide added support.  

What is Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome? 

PCOS is primarily driven by an imbalance of hormones. Women with PCOS often produce higher-than-normal levels of androgens (hyperandrogenism), male hormones like testosterone, which can lead to symptoms like excessive hair growth (hirsutism), acne, and hair loss. Many women with PCOS have insulin resistance, meaning their bodies don’t respond properly to insulin, the hormone that regulates blood sugar. As a result, the pancreas produces more insulin to compensate.

High insulin levels can stimulate the ovaries to produce more androgens, worsening hormonal imbalances, and possibly lead to weight gain. The name “polycystic” refers to the state of the ovaries in many women with PCOS. The ovaries may develop multiple small, fluid-filled sacs, or cysts, which are actually underdeveloped follicles. These follicles contain immature eggs that never fully mature to trigger ovulation. Normally, a mature egg is released during ovulation, but in women with PCOS, the hormonal imbalance prevents the ovaries from releasing eggs regularly. This leads to irregular or missed menstrual cycles, which is one of the main signs of PCOS [1]. 

What is Astaxanthin? 

Astaxanthin is a natural pink pigment found in certain algae and seafood like salmon, trout, krill, and shrimp. It belongs to a group of pigments known as carotenoids, which serve as antioxidants, helping to protect cells from harmful free radicals that can lead to cellular damage and contribute to various diseases. Astaxanthin is also available as a dietary supplement. Research suggests it may help prevent conditions such as diabetes, cardiovascular diseases, and brain disorders, while also providing benefits for skin protection and reducing inflammation [2]. 

How Does Astaxanthin Manage PCOS Symptoms? 

Women with PCOS often experience heightened levels of oxidative stress and inflammation. These conditions can exacerbate symptoms such as insulin resistance, acne, and excessive hair growth. By promoting the body’s natural antioxidant defenses and reducing oxidative stress, astaxanthin lowers the inflammatory response. Astaxanthin protects mitochondria, the powerhouses of cells, ensuring they produce energy efficiently without generating excessive free radicals that contribute to inflammation.

Astaxanthin also suppresses the production of pro-inflammatory molecules such as cytokines (like TNF-alpha and IL-6) and enzymes (such as COX-2), which drive the inflammatory response. This suppression reduces inflammation at the cellular level, alleviating symptoms like pain, swelling, and tissue damage. By providing dual antioxidant and anti-inflammatory action, astaxanthin may be an ideal supplement for women looking for natural ways to manage their PCOS symptoms [2]. 

Astaxanthin and PCOS: The Latest Research 

A 2021 study, covering a randomised, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial at the Omid Clinic in Tehran, highlights astaxanthin’s effectiveness in reducing inflammation and cellular stress in women with PCOS. The study explored how astaxanthin supplementation affects these two major components of PCOS: inflammation and oxidative stress. After eight weeks, the results were promising. Women who took 12 mg astaxanthin experienced a notable reduction in both inflammation markers and cellular stress [3].  

In another double-blind, randomised, placebo-controlled trial, researchers investigated the impact of astaxanthin on oxidative stress and assisted reproductive technology (ART) outcomes in women with PCOS. Participants were assigned to receive either 8 mg of astaxanthin or a placebo daily for 40 days.

The study found that astaxanthin supplementation significantly increased serum levels of catalase, an important antioxidant enzyme that helps protect cells from oxidative stress, and total antioxidant capacity (TAC), and enhanced the expression of oxidative stress-related genes and proteins in granulosa cells (cells found in the ovarian follicles that surround the developing oocyte/egg). Additionally, it improved the maturation of oocytes and the rate of high-quality embryos [5].  

Other Supplements for PCOS Management 

While astaxanthin shows promise for the management of PCOS symptoms, other supplements can also be beneficial. Some of the top supplements include: 

1. Inositol: Often used to improve insulin sensitivity, inositol can help regulate menstrual cycles and reduce androgen levels. Randomised controlled studies on inositol supplementation in women with PCOS have shown improvements in nearly all pathological conditions of the disorder, including the restoration of reproductive function, reduction in androgen levels, and better insulin regulation.  

2. Omega-3 Fatty Acids: Omega-3s convert into anti-inflammatory molecules called resolvins and protectins. These molecules reduce the production of pro-inflammatory cytokines, proteins that promote inflammation in the body and improve androgen levels. 

3. Berberine: Berberine activates the enzyme AMPK (AMP-activated protein kinase), which plays a key role in energy metabolism. This activation improves how cells respond to insulin, allowing them to take up glucose more efficiently. By enhancing insulin sensitivity, berberine helps lower blood sugar levels and prevents the pancreas from producing excess insulin. 

4. Vitamin D: Many women with PCOS are deficient in vitamin D, which can exacerbate insulin resistance and hormonal imbalances, leading to weight gain. Vitamin D enhances the responsiveness of cells to insulin by improving the number and activity of insulin receptors on the cell surface, meaning that insulin can bind more effectively to these receptors, allowing glucose to enter cells more efficiently, thereby reducing blood sugar levels. 

5. Vitamin E: Vitamin E has been shown to help regulate hormone levels, particularly by improving progesterone production. Progesterone is a hormone that is critical for maintaining regular menstrual cycles, which are often irregular in women with PCOS. In this way, vitamin E can help normalise menstrual cycles and improve fertility. 

6. Magnesium: Studies have found that magnesium supplementation can enhance the body’s sensitivity to insulin, allowing cells to better respond to it. Magnesium improves the body’s insulin receptor function, reducing inflammation, and supporting glucose metabolism. Adequate magnesium levels ensure that insulin can effectively bind to its receptors and promote glucose uptake into the cells. By improving the body’s response to insulin, magnesium supplementation can help manage blood sugar levels and reduce the risk of insulin resistance-related conditions, such as type 2 diabetes [4]. 

Product Recommendations  

Terranova Astaxanthin Complex  

Sourced naturally from the haematococcus pluvialis algae, Terranova Astaxanthin Complex delivers naturally sourced astaxanthin for optimal skin health and antioxidant protection. Terranova Astaxanthin Complex also features Magnifood Complex and a rich blend of carotenoids and numerous phytonutrients, including tocotrienols, tocopherols, lutein, zeaxanthin, phycocyanin, and chlorophyll. These elements not only complement astaxanthin but work synergistically to enhance its overall health benefits. 

Phytopure® Krill Oil  

Phytopure® Krill Oil may offer numerous health benefits due to its rich concentration of omega-3 fatty acids, phospholipids, choline, and astaxanthin. Its intake may support improved heart and brain health, promote liver functionality and skin health, while potentially reducing inflammation and improving blood lipid levels. With its high bioavailability and powerful antioxidant properties, this supplement can support healthy ageing and may reduce the risk of chronic diseases. Phytopure® Krill Oil utilises clinically tested SuperbaKrill® to increase the Omega-3 Index as well as the Eco-Harvesting™ method for sustainability and quality.  

For women looking for natural ways to manage their PCOS symptoms, astaxanthin is a promising supplement due to its ability to reduce inflammation and cellular stress. Backed by research, astaxanthin’s powerful antioxidant defense may help alleviate chronic inflammation and other symptoms associated with PCOS. Combined with lifestyle interventions and supplements, astaxanthin could become a valuable part of a holistic PCOS management plan.