Fish oil with omega-3 fatty acids isn’t the only thing from the ocean that can improve function in the human body. Astaxanthin is a carotenoid pigment that occurs in trout, microalgae, yeast, and shrimp, among other sea creatures. It’s most commonly found in Pacific salmon and is what gives the fish its pinkish color.
An antioxidant, astaxanthin is said to have many health benefits. It’s been linked to healthier skin, endurance, heart health, joint pain, and may even have a future in cancer treatment.  Here's a few other benefits you may not know about:
Astaxanthin’s antioxidant properties provide the main source of the health claims and benefits of the supplement.
Because of its antioxidant properties, there has been a lot of research on how astaxanthin might help to treat various cancers.
Astaxanthin can be used topically to promote healthy skin.
There has been a lot of study on how astaxanthin can affect endurance, as well as fatigue levels after exercise.
Researchers are also looking into claims that astaxanthin can benefit heart health. A 2006 study examined astaxanthin’s effects on rats with hypertension (high blood pressure), and results indicated that it may help to improve elastin levels and arterial wall thickness.
Astaxanthin may also have a future in the treatment of joint pain, including conditions like rheumatoid arthritis.
In a 2005 study, astaxanthin showed positive results for male fertility. Over the course of three months, the double-blind study examined 30 different men who were previously suffering from infertility.