Astaxanthin Explained: Longevity, Heart Health & Bioavailability with Dave Watumull

This week on the Strong New York Podcast, host Kenny Santucci interviews David Watumull, co-founder and CEO of AX3 Life, a longevity company focused on helping people perform at their best for longer. Dave explains the science behind inflammaging — chronic inflammation linked to aging — and how AX3’s bio-pure astaxanthin is designed to address it at the source.

Kenny and Dave discuss why astaxanthin is emerging as a foundational daily nutrient for longevity, supporting cognition, heart health, endurance, recovery, and skin and eye health. Dave also breaks down how it works in the body, the growth of research in this space, and clinical findings related to oxidative stress and LDL.

They also explore the history of astaxanthin, the challenges of building awareness in the longevity category, and practical details including dosing, packaging, and pricing. A thoughtful conversation on performance, recovery, and the future of longevity science. 

00:00 Podcast intro and guest

00:25 First look at astaxanthin

00:52 How to take it and feel it

01:21 Why the pouch packaging

02:16 Cellular benefits explained

04:00 Research and safety proof

05:45 Origin story and setbacks

08:10 Marketing and investor hurdles

10:51 Elevator pitch and daily stack

13:30 Where it comes from and extraction

16:41 Awareness and education challenge

19:24 Growth channels and target users

24:03 Advocates and NIH lifespan study

27:23 Where the brand goes next

27:48 Astaxanthin with Omega-3s

28:53 LDL and Heart Risk

31:03 Inflammation and hsCRP

32:00 Origin Story and Mission

35:55 Dosing and Expectations

37:28 Cost and Value Debate

39:34 Bioavailability Comparison

40:35 Vision for Mass Adoption

42:02 Workout Routine and Community

46:05 Skin and Exercise Benefits

48:26 NAD and Mitochondria

50:11 How to Take It Daily

51:09 Travel and Fitness in Hawaii

53:32 Wrap Up and Where to Buy