Researchers at Washington State University tested the effects of daily astaxanthin supplements on 42 young women who averaged 21 years of age. The researchers divided the test patients into three groups- a placebo group, and two groups with different levels of daily astaxanthin supplements.

The women who received the nutrient showed marked improvements in the strength of their immune systems. Researchers found that the levels of T and B cells, which fight off any dangerous cells that enter the body, increased in patients who took astaxanthin.

Astaxanthin improves immune health in young women, the researchers said. Previous studies have shows that the nutrient contains a large quantity of antioxidants and that it can benefit joint health.

Further research may be necessary to determine the benefits of the nutrient on broader selections of test subjects, as this study focused on a specific population. The European Food Safety Authority said that more research should be conducted to determine the reason for the beneficial properties of astaxanthin.

The nutrient is drawn from algae that, when eaten by fish and crustaceans, can cause the creatures to turn pink. Astaxanthin contains nearly 500 times the amount of antioxidants than vitamin E.