The Added Benefits of Marine Phytoplankton That Perhaps You Did Not Realize!

The Benefits of Carotenoids In Marine Phytoplankton

The main benefit of marine phytoplankton, in our view, is its Omega-3 content. The good thing is that it is a whole food, and we get to enjoy the complete food matrix of the alga (Nannochloropsis), which has numerous benefits, especially when it comes to antioxidants.

Recently, I came across a study from 2000 where they already found that Nannochloropsis has a very high capacity for accumulating pigments, so called keto-carotenoids, specifically astaxanthin, canthaxanthin, zeaxanthin, and violaxanthin.

These pigments work as powerful anti-oxidants in our body.

High-Yield Ant-Oxidant Production in Phytoplankton Species

Marine Phytoplankton (Nannochloropsis sp.) was discovered through the study of marine microalgae. In modern days, when grown in photobioreactors and at high cell densities  Nannochloropsis cultures can achieve impressive pigment or anti-oxidant levels. For example:

• Chlorophyll a: 350 mg L^-1
• Violaxanthin: 50 mg L^-1
• Canthaxanthin: 5 mg L^-1
• Astaxanthin: 3 mg L^-1

The highest amounts of canthaxanthin and astaxanthin were found in Nannochlorpsis Gaditana making up around 1% of the dry weight.

Phytoplankton Contains A Spectrum of Valuable Pigments

The findings of this and other studies highlight that the Nannochloropsis species is a wonderful source of valuable pigments, not just due to its ability to accumulate not just a single pigment, but rather its potential to produce a wider range of pigments including chlorophyll a, zeaxanthin, canthaxanthin, and astaxanthin, all at high production levels. Both cantaxanthin and zeaxanthin have a wider range of health benefits. Studies have shown they have a positive impact on:

• Cardio Vascular Health
• Eye Health
• Immune System Support
• Skin Health/Protection

So, What is Oxidative Stress Anyway?

Oxidative stress happens when there’s an imbalance between free radicals and antioxidants in your body.

Free Radicals:

• Free radicals are tiny, unstable molecules that can damage cells.
• They are produced naturally in your body as a byproduct of normal processes like breathing and digesting food.
• External sources like pollution, cigarette smoke, and radiation can also increase free radicals.

Antioxidants:

• Antioxidants are molecules that neutralize free radicals.
• They can come from the food you eat, like fruits and vegetables, or be produced by your body.

How It Works:

1. Free Radical Production: Your body generates free radicals all the time.
2. Antioxidant Defense: Normally, antioxidants step in to neutralize free radicals and prevent them from causing harm.
3. Imbalance: If there are too many free radicals and not enough antioxidants, the balance tips. This leads to oxidative stress.

Why is Oxidative Stress Bad?

• Cell Damage: Free radicals can damage cells, proteins, and DNA, leading to various health problems.
• Aging: It speeds up the aging process.
• Diseases: It’s linked to chronic diseases like heart disease, diabetes, cancer, and neurodegenerative diseases like Alzheimer’s.

How to Prevent Oxidative Stress:

1. Eat Antioxidant-Rich Foods:
   • Fruits (e.g., berries, oranges)
   • Vegetables (e.g., spinach, broccoli)
   • Nuts and seeds
   • Whole grains
2. Avoid Toxins:
   • Don’t smoke.
   • Limit exposure to pollution and harmful chemicals.
3. Healthy Lifestyle:
   • Exercise regularly.
   • Get enough sleep.
   • Manage stress.

In Summary:

Oxidative stress is like when your body’s cleanup crew (antioxidants) can’t keep up with the mess (free radicals). This imbalance can damage your cells and contribute to aging and various diseases. Eating a healthy diet, avoiding harmful substances, and maintaining a good lifestyle can help keep this balance in check.