Astaxanthin; alternative to Vitamin E supplementation?

Astaxanthin is an antioxidant in the same class as beta-carotene. As such, its functions are similar.

Unlike most others, I am not a large believer in antioxidants having tremendous health benefits. I think they can help somewhat under certain circumstances.

For optimal health they need to be turned on or off depending on particular needs. It is where, when, and how antioxidants are used in the body that will determine its benefits or not.

Though astaxanthin is a powerful antioxidant, this does not necessarily make it better. Lycopene found in tomatoes has a deeper red color because of it's more concentrated pigment and is therefore perhaps an even more powerful antioxidant.

Astaxanthin may help protect fish oils especially from oxidation.