Exploring Astaxanthin & Tocotrienols for Brain Health Support: Research Insights

Life throws a lot at you - stress, work pressure, emotional ups and downs—and while your younger brain can often handle it all, things may feel tougher as you age. That’s when taking preventive steps for brain health becomes essential. Along with regular exercise and a balanced diet, certain nutrients like Astaxanthin and Tocotrienols may offer added support. 

This piece brings together research-backed insights into how these natural ingredients can help support cognitive health as you age, so you can continue to think clearly and navigate everyday challenges, just like you did in your 20s. Let’s explore what the science says.

What Research Says for Astaxanthin & Tocotrienols Combination?

Purpose

This review article aims to examine the possible cognitive health benefits of Astaxanthin (AST) & Tocotrienols in combination. More specifically, this article will help you understand how these two natural ingredients, known for their antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, may complement each other and support overall cognitive function, based on preliminary findings. This review will also provide an overview of recent research findings, while emphasizing the need for further studies to understand their effects on cognitive health and wellness.

What are the Key Findings of this Review Article?

Tocotrienols, sourced from natural sources such as palm oil, rice bran, and annatto, have an antioxidant potential 40 to 60 times greater than that of tocopherols. Interestingly, studies show that they support brain health.

In early studies, Astaxanthin has been promising for cognitive support and neuroprotection as a carotenoid with anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties.

Some current studies propose that Astaxanthin and Tocotrienols can be combined. Combining them has shown a possibility of improving composite memory and verbal memory. Remember that more research is necessary to confirm such statements.

Preliminary findings suggest that the combination of Astaxanthin and tocotrienols may help sustain cognitive functions. Some preliminary findings also suggest potential neuroprotective effects when consumed as a combined natural supplement 1. This review thus summarizes what you can look forward to regarding these potential compounds soon.

Introduction

Cognitive functioning is the ability to perceive and react, process and understand, make choices, and develop the required responses to the environment. It is often severely impaired in individuals dealing with major mental illnesses, resulting in a range of difficulties in social and occupational functioning as well as an overall lower quality of life. Treatment for many common mental disorders has been investigated to enhance cognition.

For various reasons, our mental capacity declines with age. These reasons may include illness or diseases, oxidative stress, accumulation of amyloid β (a key factor in the development of Alzheimer's disease), lack of sleep, physical inactivity, inflammation, brain injuries, and family history2,3. Although we cannot stop these cognitive impairments, we can definitely hinder their progression. We can prevent or retard the progression of AD and influence the worsening of cognitive function by using some probable interventions such as anti-inflammatory and antioxidant activity, including a holistic diet, exercise, and cognitive and social networks, useful to safeguard nerve cells in the brain4.

Now that you understand cognitive functioning and the factors contributing to its decline, explore the next section, which discusses studies supporting the benefits of astaxanthin, tocotrienol, and their combination in promoting cognitive health with age. You will also explore how they work and what their potential action is.

Astaxanthin and Tocotrienol: What the Research Says About Cognitive Support

1. Studies Showing Astaxanthin's Impact on Cognitive Health

a. A recent review article in the journal Nutrients investigated the benefits of Astaxanthin supplementation for cognitive health. A group wrote the paper of experts from Edge Hill University in the United Kingdom. It clarifies the biological ways in which Astaxanthin holds promise for enhancing cognitive function and potentially delaying cognitive decline. 5

Below are the results (Reduced Mental Fatigue, Enhanced Memory, Enhanced Attention, & Increased Processing Speed) of the experiment:

The Findings:

• Individuals who participated in Astaxanthin supplementation studies experienced reduced mental fatigue, which could indicate its role in enhancing cognitive endurance.

• The results show that the participants who received Astaxanthin supplementation performed better on memory tests than the placebo group, suggesting potential benefits for short-term and long-term memory.

• According to the study, supplementing with Astaxanthin enhanced performance on attention-demanding tasks. The individuals were able to sustain longer times of concentration and thus showed enhancement in cognitive stamina.

• According to the study, the Astaxanthin group had a significantly faster cognitive processing speed, which is required for work that requires quick thinking and decision-making.

b. A recent clinical study evaluated the impact of Astaxanthin and Sesamin supplementation on cognitive performance in individuals with mild cognitive impairment (MCI). The trial aimed to assess whether this combination could support cognitive function, particularly in areas related to speed and mental clarity.

Twenty-one individuals diagnosed with mild cognitive impairment were randomly assigned to receive either an Astaxanthin and Sesamin supplement or a placebo for 12 weeks. Cognitive performance was measured at baseline, 6 weeks, and 12 weeks using two standardized tests.

The Findings:

• Participants in the Astaxanthin group showed significant improvements in both psychomotor speed and processing speed, suggesting enhanced performance in tasks that require quick, accurate thinking and responses.

• The study supports the potential of Astaxanthin supplementation, when paired with Sesamin, as a cognitive enhancer for individuals experiencing early signs of cognitive decline.

How Astaxanthin Works

As a natural food additive, Astaxanthin has been present in human diets for thousands of years. Additionally, since at least 1999, dry meals of Haematococcus pluvialis have been marketed as dietary supplements in the US. The safety of natural astaxanthin is well-supported by both qualitative and quantitative scientific evidence, including data from humans and animals. 

The Actions of Astaxanthin:

• It may neutralize harmful free radicals, which are unstable molecules that can damage cells and cause oxidative stress.

• It may protect brain cells by reducing oxidative stress and inflammation in the brain; Astaxanthin has the potential to help protect neurons and support brain health.

• It crosses the blood-brain barrier and can reach the brain, making it effective in improving cognitive function. 

• Astaxanthin has been shown to have potent antioxidant activity in some studies, reportedly stronger than vitamin C or E (6,000 times stronger than vitamin C and 100 times stronger than vitamin E) in trapping free radicals. These results are based on specific experimental models and require further validation.

Also, unlike some antioxidants that can damage cells, Astaxanthin neutralizes free radicals without turning them into harmful molecules.

Clinical research supports the health benefits of pure natural Astaxanthin derived from Haematococcus pluvialis.

• It may have support for the heart & promote a healthy balance in oxidation.

• Might prevent the onset of diabetes

• Could enhance healthy aging and eye well-being

• It could help support the body's recovery after an intensive workout.

Also read 7 Benefits of Astaxanthin: Sources & Recommended Dosage.

2. Studies Showing Tocotrienol's Impact on Cognitive Health

a. A review article in the journal Nutrients explored how tocotrienol, a form of vitamin E, may help protect the brain and reduce the risk of Alzheimer’s disease. Researchers from the University of Malaysia and Columbia Asia Hospital authored the paper.

The review examined lab studies and human data to understand tocotrienol’s role in brain health, particularly its effects on oxidative stress, cellular energy (mitochondrial function), and brain cholesterol balance.

The Findings:

• Tocotrienol helps reduce oxidative stress, protecting brain cells from damage.

• It supports brain cell energy and repair.

• In lab studies, it prevented damage caused by excess glutamate.

• Human studies found higher tocotrienol levels linked to lower Alzheimer’s risk.

• Tocotrienol shows promise as a brain-protective nutrient, but more clinical trials are needed to confirm its benefits in preventing Alzheimer’s disease.

b. A study in the Journal of Clinical Biochemistry and Nutrition examined how tocotrienols, a form of vitamin E, affect brain health and weight in mice fed a high-fat diet.

Mice were given tocotrienols while on a high-fat diet. Researchers observed changes in weight, memory, liver fat, and brain health.

The Findings:

• Tocotrienols reduced weight gain and liver fat.

• Mice showed better memory and brain performance.

• Small amounts of tocotrienols reached the brain.

• No significant changes were seen in brain proteins,besides few benefits.

• Tocotrienols may help manage weight and support brain health, even with a high-fat diet. More research is needed.

How Tocotrienol Works

Tocotrienol works by acting as a potent antioxidant that protects cell membranes from oxidative damage caused by free radicals. It enhances cellular repair, supports mitochondrial function, and regulates cholesterol levels, which makes tocotrienol especially beneficial for brain, heart, and overall cellular health.

The Actions of Tocotrienol:

• Shields cell membranes from oxidative damage.

• Supports the repair of damaged cells.

• Helps regulate healthy cholesterol levels.

• Promotes cognitive function and heart health.

3. Study on the Combined Impact of Astaxanthin & Tocotrienols on Cognitive Health

Let's Dive In!

Astaxanthin & tocotrienols are being studied for their potential complementary benefits for cognitive health. Initial findings suggest that, taken together, they support memory performance.

A randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled study by Sekikawa Takahiro et al. (2020) explored the cognitive health benefits of combining astaxanthin and tocotrienols. The study aimed to determine if these nutrients could improve memory performance in healthy individuals with mild forgetfulness.

The Findings:

• The astaxanthin and tocotrienol supplement improved memory scores over 12 weeks compared to the placebo group.

• Participants in the test group showed better processing speed, reaction time, and attention, although these changes were not statistically significant.

• The test group reported fewer issues with recalling names by the end of the study.

• No significant changes were observed in social skills, executive functions, or blood markers.

• No adverse effects were reported, confirming the supplement was safe for consumption.

Also read How Much Tocotrienol Is Too Much? Understanding the Right Tocotrienol Dose.

Review’s Conclusion for You: 

Supplementation with astaxanthin and tocotrienols, either alone or in combination, likely has the potential to support cognitive health, largely due to the antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties that research has uncovered. Further studies will reveal if these compounds can be used safely and effectively in the long term. Research is ongoing and will help bring their potential health benefits and more practical uses for health and wellness into clearer focus.

Disclaimer: There are no long-term studies yet on the cognitive benefits of astaxanthin & tocotrienols beyond 12-week trials. Researchers suggest that more studies are needed to understand the full impact of these ingredients on overall wellness, including cognitive health. Also, we would like to inform you that the FDA has not reviewed these statements, and these compounds are not meant to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.

References:

1. De O Tavares, Vagner Deuel, et al. “Effects of Exercise on Cognitive Functioning in Adults With Serious Mental Illness: A Meta Analytic Review.” Psychiatry Research, vol. 321, Feb. 2023, p. 115081. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.psychres.2023.115081.

2. “Assessing Cognitive Impairment in Older Patients.” National Institute on Aging, 16 Apr. 2023, www.nia.nih.gov/health/health-care-professionals-information/assessing-cognitive-impairment-older-patients.

3. Randhawa, Samender S., and Dona Varghese. “Geriatric Evaluation and Treatment of Age-Related Cognitive Decline.” StatPearls - NCBI Bookshelf, 28 Sept. 2023, www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK580536.

4. Nelson, Lucy, and Naji Tabet. “Slowing the progression of Alzheimer’s disease; what works?” Ageing Research Reviews, vol. 23, July 2015, pp. 193–209. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.arr.2015.07.002.

5. Svavar, Halldorsson. “Astaxanthin Supplementation and Cognitive Health: New Insights from Recent Research. - Algalif, Icelandic Producer of Pure, High-Grade, Natural Astaxanthin from Microalgae.” Algalif, Icelandic Producer of Pure, High-Grade, Natural Astaxanthin From Microalgae, 10 July 2024, algalif.is/astaxanthin-supplementation-and-cognitive-health-new-insights-from-recent-research.

6. FDA (1999) Cyanotech Premarket Notification for New Dietary Ingredient: Haematococcus pluvialis algae.

7. Aquasearch. Haematococcus Pluvialis and Astaxanthin Safety For Human Consumption. pp. 1–2. downloads.regulations.gov/FDA-2004-S-0571-0182/attachment_28.pdf.

8. Spiller, Gene A., and Antonella Dewell. “Safety of an Astaxanthin-RichHaematococcus pluvialisAlgal Extract: A Randomized Clinical Trial.” Journal of Medicinal Food, vol. 6, no. 1, Mar. 2003, pp. 51–56. https://doi.org/10.1089/109662003765184741.

9. Nasim, Beigi Boroujeni, and Maryam Hormozi. “Assessment of malondialdehyde levels and antioxidant enzyme activity in an astaxanthin-treated human neuroblastoma cell line.” Journal of Ilam University of Medical Sciences, 15 Aug. 2024, sjimu.medilam.ac.ir/browse.php?a_id=8198&sid=1&slc_lang=en.

10. Abdelazim, Karim, et al. “Production and therapeutic use of astaxanthin in the nanotechnology era.” Pharmacological Reports, vol. 75, no. 4, May 2023, pp. 771–90. https://doi.org/10.1007/s43440-023-00488-y.