Nutraceutical Potential of Astaxanthin in Muscle Metabolism, Exercise Adaptation, and Obesity

Astaxanthin (AX), a naturally occurring xanthophyll carotenoid, has attracted growing scientific interest due to its potent antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and metabolic-regulatory properties. This review provides a critical appraisal of the current evidence regarding the nutraceutical potential of AX in muscle metabolism, exercise adaptation, and obesity management. Preclinical and clinical findings indicate that AX enhances lipid utilization, promotes mitochondrial biogenesis through AMPK activation, and improves endurance and muscle strength, particularly among older adults. Moreover, AX mitigates exercise-induced oxidative stress and muscle damage, thereby supporting recovery and physiological adaptation. In obesity models, AX reduces adipose tissue inflammation, improves insulin sensitivity, and modulates adipokine secretion, suggesting a multifaceted role in metabolic syndrome prevention. Despite robust preclinical data, human trials remain limited and often yield inconsistent outcomes, highlighting the need for well-designed, long-term clinical studies. Emerging evidence highlights the importance of optimized delivery strategies to enhance AX bioavailability and mitochondrial targeting. Nanoemulsions, liposomes, and lipid-based carriers improve stability, absorption, and tissue distribution, thereby potentiating AX’s effects on mitochondrial function and exercise adaptation. Overall, AX emerges as a promising nutraceutical candidate for enhancing muscle function, supporting exercise performance, and managing obesity-related metabolic disease, with delivery innovations representing a critical frontier for future translational applications.