Krill Oil
Krill from cold ocean regions is high in EPA and DHA, the same omega-3 fatty acids found in fish oil. Krill is a crustacean, similar to shrimp, that lives in the ocean. It contains phospholipids and antioxidants such as the carotenoid astaxanthin. It is also more easily absorbed into the body than fish oils. (1)
Health benefits of krill oil
- Helps to maintain brain function
- It may help with ADHD
- Maintains healthy vision
- Manages cholesterol levels
- Anti-inflammatory
What are the benefits?
1) Maintains brain function
DHA helps to maintain brain function. Low levels of essential fatty acids such as DHA and EPA are with poor memory.
A 12-week study involving 45 men aged between 61 and 72 looked at the relationship between fish oil consumption and cognition. The men were put in three groups. They received krill oil, sardine oil or a placebo. The results show that n-3 PUFAs improved cognitive function in older men. (2)
2) It may help with ADHD
Studies suggest that krill oil supplements may reduce the severity of behavioural problems in children, including hyperactivity and attention deficit disorders. (3)
3) Maintains healthy vision
It also supports the maintenance of vision. Diets high in omega-3 fatty acids have been linked to a lower risk of developing age-related macular degeneration. This is because DHA is necessary for your eyes to function properly. Krill oil supplements could also help improve night vision.
4) Manages cholesterol levels
Several studies show a link between EPA and DHA fatty acid consumption, and a reduced risk of heart problems, including high blood pressure, angina, and heart failure. They also help maintain healthy cholesterol levels. (4)
5) Anti-inflammatory
EPA and DHA fatty acids might be anti-inflammatory. It follows that krill oil might help relieve the pain and stiffness associated with arthritic and rheumatic conditions, including osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis.
Krill oil works well with
- Glucosamine to help repair and rebuild cartilage
- Multivitamin to enhance the absorption of EPA and DHA
- Agnus Castus to balance hormones for the relief of PMS, painful and heavy periods
- Bilberry for eye health and to help accelerate the regeneration of rhodopsin and prevent macular degeneration.
Some things to consider
Do not take krill oil if you are allergic to seafood and avoid taking krill oil with blood-thinning medication.
Resources
- https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3168413/
- https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/24098072
- https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/21961774
- https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/28371906
