Natural astaxanthin supplier AstaReal recently announced that it has secured a U.S. patent for the use of astaxanthin as a gut health ingredient, following research which evidenced the carotenoid’s ability to increase intestinal population of Akkermansia, a genus of at least nine known bacterial strains linked to SCFA (short-chain fatty acid) production.
 
The traditional list of ‘good’ bacteria, such as Bifidobacterium and lactic acid-producing bacteria is expanding as new science emerges on next-generation probiotic strains, AstaReal said. Akkermansia is a relatively new genus available on the probiotics market, and is represented by bacteria which naturally make up the human gut microbiome – Akkermansia muciniphila makes up about 3-5% of the gut microbiome in healthy individuals.

(Read more about Astaxanthin as an Antioxidant Powerhouse by clicking here.)

Studies have shown that its abundance in the intestinal mucus layer is inversely correlated with BMI, rates of type 1 diabetes, and bowel disease in humans. Akkermansia produces nutrients that feed intestinal cells responsible for producing the intestinal mucus layer, which helps to maintain healthy intestinal barrier function, control gut permeability, and control low-grade inflammation in the gut, AstaReal said.
 
During a four-week preclinical study, AstaReal Astaxanthin increased Akkermansia in intestinal flora by nearly 12 times, compared to a control, suggesting that the ingredient could help modulate intestinal flora to promote gut health.
 
“AstaReal continues to be on the leading edge of science, demonstrating new applications for AstaReal Astaxanthin in the area of the gut microbiome,” Arun Nair, AstaReal USA Inc. CEO, said. “AstaReal maintains its position of leadership in the natural astaxanthin industry and market, building on a 30-plus year career of proven success and positive impacts on human health. We look forward to working with our partners who can benefit from this most recently secured patent.”
 
The patent was obtained jointly with Kyoto Prefectural Public University Corporation, and addresses the applications of AstaReal Astaxanthin in supplements, functional foods, and functional beverages intended to promote gut health, suppress appetite, or promote weight loss in obese individuals. The patent also covers pharmaceutical applications intended as a dietary intervention for individuals with IBS.