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Journal ArticleReviewFree radical biology & medicine·Aug 2026

Why Stacking Curcumin or Astaxanthin With Workouts Isn't Proven Yet

Key Insight

This review suggests the exercise-plus-phytochemical combo remains an open question, not a proven strategy.


Exercise flips on Nrf2, a master switch that helps cells handle oxidative stress. That switch gets sluggish with age, which is why some people pair training with plant compounds like astaxanthin, curcumin or sulforaphane. This review found the idea makes sense on paper, but most supporting data comes from cells and rodents. Human trials in older adults are still too thin to say the combo beats exercise alone.

Conflict of Interest Disclosure: The authors declare no conflict of interest.

Disclaimer: Research summaries are provided for informational purposes only and do not constitute medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional before making changes to your health routine.