Nutritional compositions (e.g., dietary supplements or nutraceutical compositions) comprising astaxanthin and, in various embodiments, a second nutritional component selected from the group consisting of phospholipids, omega-3-acids, omega-5-fatty acids, omega-6-fatty acids, omega-7-fatty acids, omega-9-fatty acids, vitamin E compounds, and mixtures thereof. For example, the nutritional compositions may contain astaxanthin along with components such as omega-3 fatty acids, phospholipids comprising a major amount of phosphatidyl choline and phosphatidyl inositol, and vitamin E comprising a major amount of delta-tocotrienol. Methods of improving the nutritional status of subject include administering the nutritional compositions, and may provide health benefits, such as reducing A1C blood levels.
