Physiological Mechanism on Chronic Diseases of Astaxanthin

[[abstract]]過去許多研究證實適時適量的運動，能促進健康、預防老化及避免殘疾風險，其作用機制可能與增強線粒體氧化酶的能力、改善胰島素敏感性有關。在身體活動及人體將營養素轉換為能量的氧化過程中，自然衍生自由基，適量自由基有助於維持體能運作，然而過量自由基可能造成氧化壓力，引起免疫系統擾動，肌肉損傷或炎症反應；若自由基長期攻擊，亦可能促使細胞凋亡與組織變異，誘發各種慢性發炎性或退化性疾病。因此，最理想的保健之道就是增強抗氧化能力、養成抗發炎體質。多數研究已證實蝦紅素具良好的抗氧化活性，可以有效的抗自由基、緩解發炎反應等生理功能。本文主要藉由科學的觀點、先前研究累積的醫學根據，確認蝦紅素膳食補充品的多元醫療保健功效與潛力。 Many studies confirmed that appropriate exercise can promote health, prevent aging and avoid the risk of disability. Its mechanism may be related to the ability to enhance mitochondrial oxidase and improve insulin sensitivity. Free radicals get generated when the human body converts nutrients to energy and physical activities. During the process of oxidation, the free radicals support physical maintenance. However, excessive amounts of free radicals can also activate oxidative stress, which may lead to immune dysfunctioning, muscle injuries or inflammation. Being under the attack of free radicals constantly may trigger cell damage, homeostatic disruption and chronic inflammatory or degenerative diseases. Hence, the optimal method to stay healthy is to enhance anti-oxidation and to cultivate anti-inflammatory physique. Extensive research has proven astaxanthin has anti-oxidant properties which can effectively anti-free radicals, relieve the inflammation response and modulate physiological functions. This paper reviews the current available medical evidence regarding astaxanthin to identify its diversified health benefits in dietary supplements