Krill Oil Research Articles
List of Scientific Research Papers and Articles on Krill Oil at bottom of the page.
1) Krill Oil Review
Krill oil, made from small marine crustaceans called Krill (Euphausia superba), has become a popular source of omega-3 fatty acids. Unlike fish oil supplements, where omega-3 fatty acids are mainly bound to triglycerides, krill oil contains a significant proportion of omega-3 esterified into phospholipids (~40-60%). It appears that this form of omega-3 has a greater level of bioavailability (a measure of absorbancy and availability to the target tissue) and biological activity than fish oils.
Krill oil also contains a powerful antioxidant – astaxanthin - that is believed to increase the anti-inflammatory effect of Krill oil. Research shows that krill oil may be beneficial for the regulation of cholesterol levels, some metabolic disorders, inflammation and symptoms of arthritis, premenstrual symptoms, brain health, heart health and colitis.
Who may benefit from Krill oil?
Krill oil appears to have a number of health benefits. Research suggests it may be beneficial for: 1) the symptoms and treatment of arthritis; 2) decreasing inflammatory markers like C-reactive protein (CRP); 3) regulation of cholesterol by lowering LDL-C and raising HDL-C (good cholesterol) levels; 4) modulating a number of metabolic pathways and defective metabolism; 5) heart protective effect; 6) possible brain protective effect; 7) increasing the levels of the omega-3 DHA in the; 8) management of emotional and physical symptoms of premenstrual tension; 9) treatment of colitis; 10) its potent antioxidant potential. Krill oil appears to have a number of health benefits and research suggests it may be of greater benefit and have a wider spectrum of effects than fish oil.
Summary of Krill oil's Phyiological Effects:
A number of studies have shown that Krill oil may be beneficial in the treatment of metabolic disorders (Banni et al., 2011; Batetta et al., 2009; Burri et al., 2011;Piscitelli et al., 2011; Tandy et al., 2009). Researchers found that the addition of Krill oil to the diets of obese mice (induced by a high fat diet) improved several metabolic disturbances and reduced endocannabinoids levels (Piscitelli et al., 2011) - endocannabinoid levels are known to increase following the consumption of fatty foods, and once eleveated they appear to impel us to eat more fatty foods.
The endocannabinoid system is believed to play an important role in the control of appetite, food intake, energy balance and body composition. Overeating/obesity can cause the endocannabinoid system to become overactive which can affect feedback mechanisms and disrupt energy and hormonal homeostasis (Banni et al., 2011; Batetta et al., 2009; Di Marzo 2008; Matias et al., 2008; Piscitelli et al., 2011;). Since krill oil appears to reduce endocannabinoid levels (Banni et al., 2011; Piscitelli et al., 2011) it may be beneficial in the treatment of obesity-related metabolic disturbances.
Research looking at the effect of fish oil and krill oil on gene expression and metabolic pathways found that krill oil significantly increased the level of gene expression and metabolic pathways when compared with fish oil (Burri et al., 2011). The researchers found that krill oil had a greater effect on gene expression than fish oil - krill oil increased gene expression in 4,892 genes, whereas omega-3s from fish oil only increased gene expression in 192 genes. In fact there were 52 metabolic pathways that were significantly changed by krill oil with only four changed by fish oil and all four of these pathways were also modulated by krill oil. The researchers stated that krill oil was more bioactive than fish oil in terms of gene expression within the liver. The researchers found that krill oil was able to exert a regulatory effect on liver metabolism including the biosynthesis of lipids and cholesterol, glucose metabolism, and fatty acid metabolism (Burri et al., 2011).
Krill oil and blood lipid/cholesterol levels
A number of studies have found that krill oil is beneficial in the regulation of blood lipids (Batetta et al., 2009; Bunea et al., 2004; Ferramosca et al., 2012; Fosshaug et al., 2011; Tandy et al., 2009; Zhu et al., 2008). Krill oil appears to be more effective in the treatment of raised blood cholesterol than fish oil with approximately 3x greater reduction in total cholesterol level compared with fish oil (Bunea et al., 2004).
The researchers found that a daily dose of 500mg of krill oil may be effective for longer term usage. In another study krill oil significantly decreased total cholesterol levels, triglyceride levels, and serum LDL-cholesterol whilst slightly increasing the levels of HDL-Cholesterol (good cholesterol) (Zhu et al., 2008). A recent animal study also found that krill oil was more effective at reducing levels of liver triglycerides and cholesterol than fish oil (Ferramosca et al., 2012).
Krill Oil and heart protective effect
Krill oil supplementation has been shown to provide a protective effect in the heart (Fosshaug et al., 2011). In this study supplementation with krill oil was found to increase the levels of both EPA and DHA in the heart. The researchers found that supplementation with krill oil prior to a heart attack provided a level of protection against some of the damage caused by a heart attack.
Krill oil supplementation and DHA levels in the brain.
Researchers have demonstrated significant increases in the levels of the omega-3 fatty acid, docosahexaenoic acid (DHA), in the brain following Krill oil supplementation (Di Marzo et al., 2010). The researchers did not find any significant increase in DHA levels in the Brain following fish oil supplementation and therefore it appears that omega-3 esterfied to phospholipids may have greater bioavailability and be able to cross the blood brain barrier more easily than omega-3 from fish oil.
Swarm of Krill
Krill Oil and Brain Health
Krill oil contains significant amounts of DHA which is known to be a major component of membrane phospholipids of the nervous system and is important for brain function and metabolism, and appears to have a neuroprotective effect (Rapoport et al., 2011; Bazan 2009; Bazan 2003;Salem et al., 2001;). Krill oil also provides a source of phospholipids – a major component of all cell membranes including the nerve fibres in our brains.
Researchers have found that DHA provides a level of neuroprotection (Mayurasakorn et al., 2011) and recently lower levels of red blood cell DHA - an important indicator of DHA intake (O'Brien et al., 2009) - were found to be associated with smaller brain volumes (Tan et al., 2012). Since the concentration of DHA in the brain is dependent on dietary intake, it is important that sufficient DHA requirements are met by either adequate dietary intake of through supplements like krill oil.
Krill oil is also a source of astaxanthin, a powerful antioxidant, that is believed to pass through the blood brain barrier. Researchers have found that astaxanthin significantly inhibits free radical generation and has been found to have a neuroprotective effect (Liu and Osawa 2009; Shen et al., 2009; Lu et al., 2010). The neuroprotective effect of asataxanthin appears to be due to a combination of its antioxidant activity, anti-inflammatory activity, mitochondrial protection and improving mitochondrial function.
Krill oil arthritis and anti-inflammatory markers
Krill oil appears to inhibit the inflammation associated with arthritis, may alleviate some of the arthritis symptoms, and could inhibit the development of arthritis (Deutsch, L 2007;Ierna et al., 2010;).
In an animal study krill oil supplementation significantly inhibited the development of arthritis (Ierna et al., 2010;). The researchers found that Krill oil significantly reduced cartilage erosion, the thickening of the synovial membrane, and was found to be more effective than fish oil. In fact the Krill oil was found to reduce the severity of arthritis by about 50%. The researchers suggest that the antioxidant, astaxanthin, may contribute to the beneficial effects of krill oil on arthritis through its anti-inflammatory effect.
Krill oil appears to significantly inhibit inflammation with daily doses of just 300mg (Deutsch, L 2007). In this study krill oil reduced C-reactive protein (CRP) – one of the most useful biomarkers of inflammation - which is known to be increased in inflammatory conditions like rheumatoid arthritis. In fact elevated CRP appears to increase the risk of a number of diseases including heart disease, high blood pressure and diabetes. Therefore any reduction in CRP by krill oil could be beneficial in the treatment/prevention of inflammatory related diseases. Current research suggests that krill oil, through a combination of astaxanthin and omega-3s, possesses potent anti-inflammatory properties.
Krill Oil Bioavailability
A number of studies have demonstrated the improved bioavailability of krill oil when compared with fish oil (Schuchardt et al., 2011; Ulven et al., 2011; Burri et al., 2011). Researchers have demonstrated that the omega-3 fatty acids were absorbed more efficiently from Krill oil when compared with the same dose of omega-3 from fish oils (Schuchardt et al., 2011). It has been suggested that the enhanced bioavailability of omega-3s in krill may be due to the esterification of phospholipids and omega-3 which may improve its uptake in the intestines and across cell membranes.
Krill oil has also been found to contain relatively high concentrations of EPA and DHA as free fatty acids - 22% of total EPA and 21% of total DHA were found to be in the free fatty acid form rather than bound to phospholipids (Schuchardt et al., 2011). The researchers suggested that the presence of relatively high levels of omega-3 as free fatty acids may improve the bioavailability of the EPA and DHA in krill oil. Therefore it may be a combination of the omega-3s bound to phospholipids and the omega-3s as free fatty acids that enhance its bioavailability compared with fish oil.
Krill oil's antioxidant activity
Krill oil contains astaxanthin, a potent antioxidant with anti-inflammatory properties (Fassett and Coombes 2011, Riccioni et al., 2011), which is believed to be responsible for some of the beneficial anti-inflammatory effects seen with krill oil (Piscitelli et al., 2011; Ierna et al., 2010;). Research suggests that astaxanthin may be beneficial for cardiovascular health (Fassett and Coombes 2011, Riccioni et al., 2011) and may also play a role in increasing HDL-cholesterol – the good cholesterol – and decreasing triglyceride levels (Ulven et al., 2011; Yoshida et al., 2010).
Krill Oil and colitis
Krill oil appears to have a potential protective effect against colitis - inflammation of the colon - and may be beneficial in its treatment (Grimstad et al., 2012). Krill oil may be beneficial in th treatment of colitis due to it's anti-inflammatory and anti-oxidant properties.
Krill Oil and premenstrual symptoms
Another area of interest is in the use of krill oil for the treatment of premenstrual symptoms. Research suggests that Krill oil may help to reduce the the symptoms (physical and emotional) of premenstrual syndrome (PMS) more effectively than fish oil (Sampalis et al., 2003). The improved effectiveness of the fish oil could be to the greater bioavailability of krill oil omega-3s and the presence of phospholipids which help to maintain cell membranes and hormone activities.
Krill oils anti-cancer properties
Krill oil appears to possess some anti-cancer properties (Zhu et al., 2008). In a study (Zhu et al., 2008) looking at the exposure of human cancer cells to different concentrations of krill oil for 48 hours, found that cancer cell growth was inhibited in a dose dependent manner (i.e. the greater the dose the greater the inhibition). Krill oil was also found to inhibit cancer cells in a time dependent manner with more pronounced inhibition occuring at 72 hours and 120 hours post treatment.
References
Banni S, Carta G, Murru E, Cordeddu L, Giordano E, Sirigu AR, Berge K, Vik H, Maki KC, Di Marzo V, Griinari M. (2011) Krill oil significantly decreases 2-arachidonoylglycerol plasma levels in obese subjects. Nutr Metab (Lond). 2011 Jan 30;8(1):7.
Batetta B, Griinari M, Carta G, Murru E, Ligresti A, Cordeddu L, Giordano E, Sanna F, Bisogno T, Uda S, Collu M, Bruheim I, Di Marzo V, Banni S. (2009) Endocannabinoids may mediate the ability of (n-3) fatty acids to reduce ectopic fat and inflammatory mediators in obese Zucker rats. J Nutr. 2009 Aug;139(8):1495-501. Epub 2009 Jun 23.
Bazan NG. (2003) Synaptic lipid signaling: significance of polyunsaturated fatty acids and platelet-activating factor. J Lipid Res. 2003;44:2221–33.
Bazan NG. (2009) Neuroprotectin D1-mediated anti-inflammatory and survival signaling in stroke, retinal degenerations, and Alzheimer's disease. J Lipid Res. 2009;50(Suppl):S400–5.
Bunea R, El Farrah K, Deutsch L. (2004) Evaluation of the effects of Neptune Krill Oil on the clinical course of hyperlipidemia. Altern Med Rev. 2004 Dec;9(4):420-8.
Burri L, Berge K, Wibrand K, Berge RK, Barger JL. (2011) Differential effects of krill oil and fish oil on the hepatic transcriptome in mice. Front Genet. 2011;2:45. Epub 2011 Jul 12.
Cohn JS, Wat E, Kamili A, Tandy S. (2011) Dietary phospholipids, hepatic lipid metabolism and cardiovascular disease. Curr Opin Lipidol. 2008;19:257–262. doi: 10.1097/MOL.0b013e3282ffaf96.
Deutsch L. (2007) Evaluation of the effect of Neptune Krill Oil on chronic inflammation and arthritic symptoms. J Am Coll Nutr. 2007 Feb;26(1):39-48.
Di Marzo V, Griinari M, Carta G, Murru E, Ligresti A, Cordeddu L, Giordano E, Bisogno T, Collu M, Batetta B, Sanna F, Uda S, Berge K, Banni S. (2010) Dietary krill oil increases docosahexaenoic acid and reduces 2-arachidonoylglycerol but not N-acylethanolamine levels in the brain of obese Zucker rats. Int Dairy J. 2010;20:231–235. doi: 10.1016/j.idairyj.2009.11.015.
Di Marzo V. (2008) The endocannabinoid system in obesity and type 2 diabetes. Diabetologia. 2008;51:1356–1367. doi: 10.1007/s00125-008-1048-2.
Di Marzo V, Griinari M, Carta G, Murru E, Ligresti A, Cordeddu L, Giordano E, Bisogno T, Collu M, Batetta B, Sanna F, Uda S, Berge K, Banni S (2010). Dietary krill oil increases docosahexaenoic acid and reduces 2-arachidonoylglycerol but not N-acylethanolamine levels in the brain of obese Zucker rats. Int Dairy J. 2010;20:231–235. doi: 10.1016/j.idairyj.2009.11.015
Fassett RG, Coombes JS. (2011) Astaxanthin: a potential therapeutic agent in cardiovascular disease.Mar Drugs. 2011 Mar 21;9(3):447-65.
Ferramosca A, Conte L, Zara V. (2012) A krill oil supplemented diet reduces the activities of the mitochondrial tricarboxylate carrier and of the cytosolic lipogenic enzymes in rats. J Anim Physiol Anim Nutr (Berl). 2012 Apr;96(2):295-306. doi: 10.1111/j.1439-0396.2011.01135.x. Epub 2011 Feb 25.
Fosshaug LE, Berge RK, Beitnes JO, Berge K, Vik H, Aukrust P, Gullestad L, Vinge LE, Oie E. (2011) Krill oil attenuates left ventricular dilatation after myocardial infarction in rats. Lipids Health Dis. 2011 Dec 29;10:245.
Grimstad T, Bjørndal B, Cacabelos D, Aasprong OG, Janssen EA, Omdal R, Svardal A, Hausken T, Bohov P, Portero-Otin M, Pamplona R, Berge RK. (2012) Dietary supplementation of krill oil attenuates inflammation and oxidative stress in experimental ulcerative colitis in rats. Scand J Gastroenterol. 2012 Jan;47(1):49-58. Epub 2011 Nov 30.
Ierna M, Kerr A, Scales H, Berge K, Griinari M. (2010) Supplementation of diet with krill oil protects against experimental rheumatoid arthritis. BMC Musculoskelet Disord. 2010 Jun 29;11:136.
Liu X, Osawa T. (2009) Astaxanthin protects neuronal cells against oxidative damage and is a potent candidate for brain food. Forum Nutr. 2009;61:129-35. Epub 2009 Apr 7.
Maki KC, Reeves MS, Farmer M, Griinari M, Berge K, Vik H, Hubacher R, Rains TM. (2009) Krill oil supplementation increases plasma concentrations of eicosapentaenoic and docosahexaenoic acids in overweight and obese men and women. Nutr Res. 2009 Sep;29(9):609-15.
Matias I, Petrosino S, Racioppi A, Capasso R, Izzo AA, Di Marzo V. (2008) Dysregulation of peripheral endocannabinoid levels in hyperglycemia and obesity: Effect of high fat diets. Mol Cell Endocrinol. 2008;286:S66–78. doi: 10.1016/j.mce.2008.01.026
Mayurasakorn K, Williams JJ, Ten VS, Deckelbaum RJ. (2011) Docosahexaenoic acid: brain accretion and roles in neuroprotection after brain hypoxia and ischemia. Curr Opin Clin Nutr Metab Care. 2011 Mar;14(2):158-67. Review.
O'Brien DM, Kristal AR, Jeannet MA, Wilkinson MJ, Bersamin A, Luick B. (2009) Red blood cell delta15N: a novel biomarker of dietary eicosapentaenoic acid and docosahexaenoic acid intake. Am J Clin Nutr. 2009 Mar;89(3):913-9. Epub 2009 Jan 28.
Piscitelli F, Carta G, Bisogno T, Murru E, Cordeddu L, Berge K, Tandy S, Cohn JS, Griinari M, Banni S, Di Marzo V. (2011) Effect of dietary krill oil supplementation on the endocannabinoidome of metabolically relevant tissues from high-fat-fed mice. Nutr Metab (Lond). 2011 Jul 13;8(1):51.
Rapoport SI, Ramadan E, Basselin M. (2011) Docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) incorporation into the brain from plasma, as an in vivo biomarker of brain DHA metabolism and neurotransmission. Prostaglandins Other Lipid Mediat. 2011 Nov;96(1-4):109-13. Epub 2011 Jun 15.
Riccioni G, D'Orazio N, Franceschelli S, Speranza L. (2011) Marine carotenoids and cardiovascular risk markers.Mar Drugs. 2011;9(7):1166-75. Epub 2011 Jun 27.
Salem N, Jr, Litman B, Kim HY, Gawrisch K. (2001) Mechanisms of action of docosahexaenoic acid in the nervous system. Lipids. 2001;36:945–59
Sampalis F, Bunea R, Pelland MF, Kowalski O, Duguet N, Dupuis S. (2003) Evaluation of the effects of Neptune Krill Oil on the management of premenstrual syndrome and dysmenorrhea. Altern Med Rev. 2003 May;8(2):171-9.
Schuchardt JP, Schneider I, Meyer H, Neubronner J, von Schacky C, Hahn A. (2011) Incorporation of EPA and DHA into plasma phospholipids in response to different omega-3 fatty acid formulations--a comparative bioavailability study of fish oil vs. krill oil. Lipids Health Dis. 2011 Aug 22;10:145.
Shen H, Kuo CC, Chou J, Delvolve A, Jackson SN, Post J, Woods AS, Hoffer BJ, Wang Y, Harvey BK. (2009) Astaxanthin reduces ischemic brain injury in adult rats. FASEB J. 2009 Jun;23(6):1958-68. Epub 2009 Feb 13.
Tan ZS, Harris WS, Beiser AS, Au R, Himali JJ, Debette S, Pikula A, Decarli C, Wolf PA, Vasan RS, Robins SJ, Seshadri S. (2012). Red blood cell omega-3 fatty acid levels and markers of accelerated brain aging. Neurology. 2012 Feb 28;78(9):658-64.
Tandy S, Chung RW, Wat E, Kamili A, Berge K, Griinari M, Cohn JS. (2009) Dietary krill oil supplementation reduces hepatic steatosis, glycemia, and hypercholesterolemia in high-fat-fed mice. J Agric Food Chem. 2009 Oct 14;57(19):9339-45.
Tou J. C., Jaczynski J., Chen Y. C. (2007). Krill for human consumption: nutritional value and potential health benefits. Nutr. Rev. 65, 63–77. doi: 10.1111/j.1753-4887.2007.tb00283.x.
Ulven SM, Kirkhus B, Lamglait A, Basu S, Elind E, Haider T, Berge K, Vik H, Pedersen JI. (2011) Metabolic effects of krill oil are essentially similar to those of fish oil but at lower dose of EPA and DHA, in healthy volunteers. Lipids. 2011 Jan;46(1):37-46. Epub 2010 Nov 2.
Wijendran V, Huang M, Diau G, Boehm G, Nathanielsz P, Brenna J. (2002) Efficacy of dietary arachidonic acid provided as triglyceride or phospholipid as substrates for brain arachidonic acid accretion in baboon neonates. Pediatr Res. 2002;51(3):265–272. doi: 10.1203/00006450-200203000-00002.
Winther B., Hoem N., Berge K., Reubsaet L. (2011). Elucidation of phosphatidylcholine composition in krill oil extracted from Euphausia superba. Lipids 46, 25–36. doi: 10.1007/s11745-010-3472-6
Yoshida H, Yanai H, Ito K, Tomono Y, Koikeda T, Tsukahara H, Tada N. (2010) Administration of natural astaxanthin increases serum HDL-cholesterol and adiponectin in subjects with mild hyperlipidemia. Atherosclerosis. 2010;209:520–523. doi: 10.1016/j.atherosclerosis.2009.10.012
Zhu JJ, Shi JH, Qian WB, Cai ZZ, Li D. (2008) Effects of krill oil on serum lipids of hyperlipidemic rats and human SW480 cells. Lipids Health Dis. 2008 Aug 29;7:30.
2) Krill Oil Versus Fish Oil
When selecting nutritional supplements we all strive to use the most effective products available. But what should we base that determination on? One option is to ask others about their personal experiences. This is commonly referred to as anecdotal evidence. Another source of data can be found in the scientific literature. Here we’re trusting that researchers are performing well designed and impartial research in a more controlled manner. Since these types of studies typically involve larger groups of people, the results may apply to broad segments of the population. But there’s another very prevalent manner of learning about dietary supplements and that is information provided by the manufacturers themselves. My contention is that we ought to examine all three sources of input.
Ask questions of your colleagues, family and friends. Read the product literature provided by nutraceutical companies and pose any inquires that you might have. Finally, investigate whether modern science has produced any evidence to back up the other two sources. I’ll apply this model to examine an area of debate that’s currently active in the natural health community: Is krill oil superior to fish oil?
Krill oil is a supplemental source of powerful antioxidants, omega-3 fatty acids and phosholipids derived from tiny crustaceans harvested largely in the Southern Ocean waters of the Antarctic. Krill oil proponents claim that it is essentially a superior form of omega-3s. Krill contain a rather unique reddish antioxidant called astaxanthin, and they’re also rich in phospholipids, which help emulsify fatty acids and enhance their absorption and retention.
A new study presented in the Journal of Nutrition appears to support this point of view. Research conducted in a group of overweight rats found that krill oil provoked a 42% decrease in fat (triglyceride) build-up in the hearts of the test rats. Fish oil only lead to a marginal decline in cardio-lipids of 2%. When the authors of the study examined the livers of these animals, they discovered a 60% reduction in fat in their livers, as opposed to 38% in the livers of rats fed fish oil. The normalization of fat content in the heart and liver indicate potential benefits to overall heart function and an improvement in insulin sensitivity, which can be impaired in cases of fatty liver disease. In addition, the krill oil test subjects exhibited positive changes associated with a reduced “inflammatory response”.
A study from 2008 demonstrated anti-cancer and heart benefits in relation to krill oil (KO) supplementation. In that trial, rats who were fed KO showed weight loss and a drop in LDL “bad” cholesterol, total cholesterol and triglyceride levels. The scientists also tested krill oil in an in-vitro model of colon cancer. The scientists concluded that, “Treatment of colon cancer cells with KO also resulted in time-dependent inhibition of cell growth”.
Krill oil has also been evaluated in other health conditions as well. The results of those studies have all been positive and, in a roundabout way, can be applied to what we currently know about heart disease.
There are several other important factors to consider when comparing fish oil and krill oil. Preliminary studies going back to the mid 90s demonstrate that krill oil appears to be safe. However, some manufacturers and health authorities caution that those with severe shellfish allergies should discuss krill oil with their physicians prior to usage. It’s also important to note that fish oil has been studied extensively over the past several decades. Literally thousands of research papers have been published on the health effects of omega-3 fatty acids found in fish. Fewer than 10 studies on krill oil have been presented in peer reviewed medical journals.
When I looked over all of the reliable data I could find about krill oil, I came to the following conclusion. Krill oil seems to be an extremely promising antioxidant/omega-3 supplement. Substantial evidence suggests that the astaxanthin content of krill largely contributes to its net effect. Astaxanthin is the same carotenoid that gives wild salmon its pink hue. But there may also be something to the phospholipid content of this crustacean. That’s the only explanation I’ve found as to why a lower dosage of KO could produce equal or greater effects than higher dosages of fish oil.
Be forewarned: Krill oil can be quite expensive. The real question is how much you’ll need to take to derive the same benefits as I’ve reported here. If you need a lower dosage, such as 500 mg, then it can be relatively affordable. But some users may require larger quantities (2-3 grams a day). The best deal I’ve found online costs roughly £25 for 90 (500mg) softgels. I think at that price, it’s certainly worth a shot for anyone who might benefit from it. I also think that KO may be an attractive alternative, because krill softgels are typically smaller in size and have a milder aroma.
3) Krill Oil VS Fish Oil Supplements – Which Omega 3 Is Better And Should You Be Taking Them?
July 15, 2011 by Keven MacMillian
For years we’ve heard all of the experts tell us how important it is to take Omega 3 supplements. But when it comes to “the best,” who wins the battler of krill oil vs fish oil? Chances are that if you ended up here you have probably heard that krill oil is better than fish oil supplements. Let me just clear this up right away — it’s true. Although I wouldn’t say that I wouldn’t take fish oil, it’s clear that krill oil is the superior choice for an Omega 3 supplement.
Before I get into this I want just say that I’m not bashing fish oil supplements at all. In fact, I’ve taken them for years and I believe that they do provide great benefits. All I’m saying here is that since I’ve learned of the fish oil alternative, the decision between krill oil and fish oil is an easy one. There has even been a lot of different scientific research that prove the benefits to taking krill oil supplements are better than fish oil supplements. Either way though, I feel that the quality of the supplement you choose is very important.
Krill Oil VS Fish Oil
Okay, so just why is krill oil better than fish oil? As I mentioned, there have been numerous studies that have proven krill oil is a more beneficial Omega 3 supplement than fish oil. In the research paper referenced above from Pub Med the study was conducted with this objective:
To assess the effects of krill oil on blood lipids, specifically total cholesterol, triglycerides, low-density lipoprotein (LDL), and high-density lipoprotein (HDL).
The outcome was clear as we can see by their findings:
Krill oil 1-3 g per day (BMI-dependent) was found to be effective for the reduction of glucose, total cholesterol, triglycerides, LDL, and HDL, compared to both fish oil and placebo … At lower and equal doses, krill oil was significantly more effective than fish oil for the reduction of glucose, triglycerides, and LDL levels.
In addition to these findings there are still other reasons that in a direct comparison of krill oil vs fish oil, krill oil is the better choice. Some of the reasons why krill oil was found to be superior to fish oil are:
Here’s a comparison chart that shows just a few of the benefits mentioned above:
Is Krill Oil Good For Weight Loss?
What about the benefits krill oil has for weight loss?
Omega 3 supplements — whether krill oil or fish oil — aid in fat loss because they reduce your insulin levels. When insulin levels are high, your body cannot use it’s fat for fuel. Because of all of the benefits to krill oil when compared to fish oil, I have to say krill oil wins hands down.
Whether for weight loss or for overall health, krill oil (and even fish oil) does have great benefits. In addition to what we’ve already mentioned, you can
References:
Kalmijn S, van Boxtel MP, Ocké M, et al. Dietary intake of fatty acids and fish in relation to cognitive performance at middle age. Neurology. 2004; 62(2): 275-80.
Innis SM. Dietary (n–3) fatty acids and brain development. J Nutr. 2007; 137: 855-859.
Lagarde M, Bernoud N, Brossard N, et al. Lysophosphatidylcholine as a preferred carrier form of docosahexaenoic acid to the brain. J Mol Neurosci. 2001; 16: 201-4.
Wainwright PE. Dietary essential fatty acids and brain function: a developmental perspective on mechanisms. Proc Sci Nutr. 2002; 61: 61-69.
4) Discover Nature’s Most Potent Anti-Inflammatory: Krill Oil
In the ocean surrounding the continent of Antarctica there are millions of tons of a natural resource known for healing a host of ailments and serious health conditions. It’s called krill oil, and it’s derived from a tiny shrimp-like crustacean species called krill.
After years of research and clinical studies, there is now scientific proof to support the evidence of this amazing nutrient’s effectiveness in treating high cholesterol… blood pressure problems… aching joints… PMS symptoms… and more.
Not only is krill oil safe and natural, but it’s also renewable, since, at best count, up to 600 million tons can be found in the chilly waters off Antarctica.
Why Krill Oil?
The reason krill oil is more effective than other marine oils is because it’s full of healthy omega-3 fatty acids, phospholipids and extremely potent antioxidants.1 It’s the unique combination of these essential ingredients that provides the greatest health benefits.
Harvested only two months out of the year under responsible fishing regulations, the krill are flash-frozen to maintain the potency of their therapeutic oil.
Benefits of Omega Fatty Acids
Both omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids are essential for your diet since your body doesn’t produce them on its own.
Krill oil contains a healthy balance of omega-3 fatty acid and omega-6 fatty acid — which helps fight infection. These two fatty acids need each other and work together to prevent other inflammation-related ailments like heart disease, arthritis and diabetes. A healthy balance of these fatty acids helps to prevent blood clotting, lower blood pressure and relieve inflammation.
The Power of Phospholipids
Phospholipids are fats that help keep your cells functioning by providing a protective membrane around each cell to block out toxins and disease-forming free radicals.
The fats found in krill oil most closely resemble the phospholipids found in your brain that are responsible for maintaining the brain chemical that controls your memory, muscle function, mood, sleep patterns and organs like your heart.
The Protection of Antioxidants
Results from laboratory tests show that krill oil contains a powerful cocktail of antioxidants, which are not only beneficial for your continued health, but also sustain the shelf life of the oil.
Krill oil provides you with an ample supply of vitamins A, E and D, plus minerals such as potassium, sodium and zinc. And it also contains large amounts of the B-complex nutrient, choline.
However, the most powerful antioxidant in krill oil is astaxanthin. This nutrient is responsible for fighting free radicals within the body and protecting the blood-brain barrier — which means it protects the eye, brain and central nervous system from free radical damage.
Krill Oil for Your Aching Joints
If you suffer from creaking, cracking joints… stiff hands and fingers… lingering back pain… or sore swollen legs due to recurrent inflammation, then krill oil may be the miracle you have been searching for!
In a double-blind study,1 45 patients with rheumatoid arthritis or osteoarthritis were administered 300 mg of krill oil. After only seven days, inflammation was reduced by 19 percent, pain was reduced 24 percent, stiffness was reduced by 21 percent and immobility was reduced by 16 percent!
How does this all-natural pain reliever work so well? It’s the combination of the trio of anti-inflammatory ingredients — omega fatty acids, phospholipids and numerous powerful antioxidants.
Ease Your Symptoms of Premenstrual Syndrome (PMS)
As many as 97 percent of women of reproductive age experience the recurring symptoms of PMS including cramps, water retention, bloating, weight gain and emotional mood swings.1 But krill oil has been proven to relieve your worst symptoms!
In a randomized, double-blind study, researchers in Montreal studied the effects of krill oil on PMS, and patients reported a significant improvement in all 10 physical and mental symptoms examined and measured. The findings show that krill oil can:1
Reduce Your Chances of Heart Disease
High total cholesterol and high “bad” LDL cholesterol can be major risk factors for heart disease or a fatal heart disaster.
In a clinical study conducted by Canadian researchers from the University of Montreal,1 the findings show that krill oil significantly reduced several risk factors for high cholesterol.
In fact, the results showed a:
Krill oil has been shown to outperform fish oil supplements when it comes to lowering your bad LDL cholesterol levels. Patients who took 1 to 1.5 grams of krill oil a day — compared to three times the dose of standard fish oil — showed a significantly greater decrease in bad cholesterol than the fish oil patients.
In an Oxygen Radical Absorbance Capacity (ORAC) test,1 krill oil was shown to contain 300 times the amount of vitamin A and E, plus 48 times the antioxidant power of standard omega-3 fish oils.
It’s no wonder that the manufacturers of fish oil don’t want you to hear about this magnificent natural resource — they would be out of business with results like these!
For much-needed relief from joint pain and PMS symptoms, plus reduced LDL cholesterol levels, I recommend nature’s amazing anti-inflammatory and antioxidant remedy — krill oil. Once you see and feel the results you may never want to take standard fish oil supplements again!
Reference
Further Reading & References
Bunea R, El Farrah K, Deutsch L. Evaluation of the effects of Neptune Krill Oil on the clinical course of hyperlipidemia. Altern Med Rev. 2004 Dec;9(4):420-8.
Sampalis F, Bunea R, Pelland MF, Kowalski O, Duquet N, Dupuis S. Evaluation of the effects of Neptune Krill Oil on the management of premenstrual syndrome and dysmenorrhea. Altern Med Rev. 2003 May;8(2):171-9.
Stone NJ. Fish consumption, fish oil: lipids, and coronary heart disease. Circulation. 1996;94:2337-2340.
Simopoulos AP. Omega 3 fatty acids in health and disease and in growth and development. Am J Clin Nutr. 1991;54:438-463.
Sampalis T, Evaluation of the Effect of NKO on Biomarkers of Chronic Inflammation in vivo. JSS medical research, inc. June 9, 2004, unpublished.
Knapp HR. Dietary fatty acids in human thrombosis and hemostasis. Am J Clin Nutr. 1997;65(suppl):1687S-1698S.
Horrobin DF. The role of essential fatty acids and prostaglandins in the premenstrual syndrome. J Reprod Med 1983;28:465-468.
Simopoulos AP. Omega-3 fatty acids in health and disease and in growth and development. Am J Clin Nutr 1991;54:438-463.
Malle E, Kostner GM. Effects of fish oils on lipid variables and platelet function indices. Prostaglandins Leukot Essent Fatty, Acids 1993:49:645-663.
Harel Z, Biro FM, Kottenhahn RK, Rosenthal SL. Supplementation with omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids in the management of dysmenorrhea in adolescents. Am J Obstet Gynecol 1996;174:1335-1338.
Dupuis, Sebastien. Evaluation of the effects of Neptune Krill Oil[TM] on the management of premenstrual syndrome and dysmenorrhea. (Krill Oil & PMS). Alternative Medicine Review . May, 2003
Alexander JW. Immunonutrition: the role of omega-3 fatty acids.Nutr 1998;14:627-33.
Toft I, Bonaa KH, Ingebretsen OC, et al. Effects of n-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids on glucose homeostasis and blood pressure in essential hypertension. Ann Intern Med 1995;123:911–8.
Dunstan DW, Burke V, Mori TA, et al. The independent and combined effects of aerobic exercise and dietary fish intake on serum lipids and glycemic control in NIDDM. Diabetes Care 1997; 20:913–21.
Von Schacky C, Angerer P, Kothny W, et al. The effect of dietary omega-3 fatty acids on coronary atherosclerosis. A randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial. Ann Intern Med 1999;130:554-62.
Maes M, Smith R, Christophe A, et al. Fatty acid composition in major depression: decreased omega 3 fractions in cholesteryl esters and increased C20: 4 omega 6/C20:5 omega 3 ratio in cholesteryl esters and phospholipids. J Affect Disord 1996;38:35–46.
Edwards R, Peet M, Shay J, Horrobin D. Omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acid levels in the diet and in red blood cell membranes of depressed patients. J Affect Disord 1998;48:149–55.
Saynor, R. and Gillott, T. Changes in blood lipids and fibrinogen with a note on safety in a long term study on the effects of n-3 fatty acids in subjects receiving fish oil supplements and followed for seven years. Lipids, Vol. 27, July 1992, pp. 533-38
Gogos, Charalambos A., et al. Dietary omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids plus vitamin E restore immunodeficiency and prolong survival for severely ill patients with generalized malignancy. Cancer, Vol. 82, January 15, 1998, pp. 395-402
Yang, Y.J., et al. Comparison of fatty acid profiles in the serum of patients with prostate cancer and benign prostatic hyperplasia. Clinical Biochemistry, Vol. 32, August 1999, pp. 405-09
Cave, W.T. Jr. Dietary omega-3 polyunsaturated fats and breast cancer. Nutrition, Vol. 12 (suppl), January 1996, pp. S39-42
Siguel, E.N. and Lerman, R.H. Prevalence of essential fatty acid deficiency in patients with chronic gastrointestinal disorders. Metabolism, Vol. 45, January 1996, pp. 12-23
Pepping, Joseph. Omega-3 essential fatty acids. American Journal of Health-System Pharmacy, Vol. 56, April 15, 1999, pp. 719-24
Kalmijn, S., et al. Polyunsaturated fatty acids, antioxidants, and cognitive function in very old men. American Journal of Epidemiology, Vol. 145, January 1, 1997, pp. 33-41
Yehuda, S., et al. Essential fatty acids preparation (SR-3) improves Alzheimer's patients quality of life. International Journal of Neuroscience, Vol. 87(3-4), November 1996, pp. 141-9
Hibbeln, Joseph R. and Salem, Norman. Dietary polyunsaturated fatty acids and depression: when cholesterol does not satisfy. American Journal of Clinical Nutrition, Vol. 62, July 1995, pp. 1-9
Stevens, Laura J., et al. Essential fatty acid metabolism in boys with attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder. American Journal of Clinical Nutrition, Vol. 62, No. 4, October 1995, pp. 761-68
Dry, J. and Vincent, D. Effect of a fish oil diet on asthma: results of a 1-year double-blind study. International Archives of Allergy and Applied Immunology, Vol. 95, No. 2/3, 1991, pp. 156-7
Research with Children
Portwood, MM. The role of dietary fatty acids in children's behaviour and learning. Nutr Health. 2006;18(3):233-47
Antalis, CJ., Stevens LJ, Campbell M, Pazdro R, Ericson K, Burgess JR. Omega-3 fatty acid status in attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder. Prostaglandins Leukot Essent Fatty Acids. 2006 Oct-Nov;75(4-5):299-308. Epub 2006 Sep 8.
Amminger GP, Berger GE, Schafer MR, Klier C, Friedrich MH, Feucht M. Omega-3 fatty acids supplementation in children with autism: a double-blind randomized, placebo-controlled pilot study. Biol Psychiatry. 2007 Feb 15;61(4):551-3. Epub 2006 Aug 22.
Auestad N, Scott DT, Janowsky JS, Jacobsen C, Carroll RE, Montalto MB, Halter R, Qiu W, Jacobs JR, Connor WE, Connor SL, Taylor JA, Neuringer M, Fitzgerald M. Visual, cognitive, and language assessments at 39 months: a follow-up study of children fed formulas containing long-chain polyunsaturated fatty acids to 1 year of age. Pediatrics. 2003 Sep;112(3 Pt 1):e177-83
Richardson AJ. Omega-3 fatty acids in ADHD and related neurodevelopmental disorders. Int Rev Psychiatry. 2006 Apr;18(2):155-72.
Richardon AJ, Montgomery P. The Oxford-Durham study: a randomized, controlled trial of dietary supplementation with fatty acids in children with developmental coordination disorder. Pediatrics. 2005 May;115(5):1360-6.
Stevens LJ, Zentall SS, Abate ML, Kuczek T, Burgess JR; Omega-3 fatty acids in boys with behavior, learning, and health problems. Physiol Behav, Volume 59 o Issue 4-5.
FDA Disclaimer: These statements have not been evaluated by the FDA. This product is not
intended to diagnose, cure or prevent any diseases. Testimonials are not a guarantee of your
results. Your individual results may vary.
5) Evaluation of the effects of Krill Oil on the clinical course of hyperlipidemia (high cholesterol).
Bunea R, El Farrah K, Deutsch L.
The above Research Paper is available in Full on PubMed.
Scientific Research Papers and Articles on Krill Oil:
http://www.howardgroupinc.com/Portals/0/neptune/research/Article%20hyperlipidemia.pdf
http://www.thorne.com/altmedrev/.fulltext/15/1/84.pdf
http://www.fbhw-mn.org/more/omega3_fatty_acids.pdf
http://biomedicine.com/documents/Asta-X-Krill%20monograph.pdf
http://www.bfr.bund.de/cm/343/efsa_opinion_on_the_safety_of_lipid_extract_from_euphausia_superba.pdf
http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/17353582
TO TOP OF PAGE
1) Krill Oil Review
- What is Krill Oil?
- Who may Benefit from Krill Oil?
- Summary of Krill Oil's Physiological Effects
- Krill Oil Research
- Is Krill Oil effective?
- How to take Krill Oil
- Krill Oil Safety
- Krill Oil References
Krill oil, made from small marine crustaceans called Krill (Euphausia superba), has become a popular source of omega-3 fatty acids. Unlike fish oil supplements, where omega-3 fatty acids are mainly bound to triglycerides, krill oil contains a significant proportion of omega-3 esterified into phospholipids (~40-60%). It appears that this form of omega-3 has a greater level of bioavailability (a measure of absorbancy and availability to the target tissue) and biological activity than fish oils.
Krill oil also contains a powerful antioxidant – astaxanthin - that is believed to increase the anti-inflammatory effect of Krill oil. Research shows that krill oil may be beneficial for the regulation of cholesterol levels, some metabolic disorders, inflammation and symptoms of arthritis, premenstrual symptoms, brain health, heart health and colitis.
Who may benefit from Krill oil?
Krill oil appears to have a number of health benefits. Research suggests it may be beneficial for: 1) the symptoms and treatment of arthritis; 2) decreasing inflammatory markers like C-reactive protein (CRP); 3) regulation of cholesterol by lowering LDL-C and raising HDL-C (good cholesterol) levels; 4) modulating a number of metabolic pathways and defective metabolism; 5) heart protective effect; 6) possible brain protective effect; 7) increasing the levels of the omega-3 DHA in the; 8) management of emotional and physical symptoms of premenstrual tension; 9) treatment of colitis; 10) its potent antioxidant potential. Krill oil appears to have a number of health benefits and research suggests it may be of greater benefit and have a wider spectrum of effects than fish oil.
Summary of Krill oil's Phyiological Effects:
- Greater bioavailability than fish oils
- Appears to increase brain DHA levels more effectively than fish oils
- Contains astaxanthin – a potent antioxidant
- Appears to be beneficial for the treatment of metabolic disorders
- Modulates a number of metabolic pathways
- Lowers total cholesterol, serum LDL-cholesterol, and triglyceride levels
- Has a heart protective effect
- Possible brain protective effect
- Appears to reduce the symptoms and development of arthritis
- Reduces levels of inflammatory markers such as the C-reactive protein
- May be beneficial for the emotional and physical symptoms of premenstrual tension
- May be beneficial for colitis
- Possible anti-cancer properties
Krill oil Research
Krill oil and metabolic syndrome/obesityA number of studies have shown that Krill oil may be beneficial in the treatment of metabolic disorders (Banni et al., 2011; Batetta et al., 2009; Burri et al., 2011;Piscitelli et al., 2011; Tandy et al., 2009). Researchers found that the addition of Krill oil to the diets of obese mice (induced by a high fat diet) improved several metabolic disturbances and reduced endocannabinoids levels (Piscitelli et al., 2011) - endocannabinoid levels are known to increase following the consumption of fatty foods, and once eleveated they appear to impel us to eat more fatty foods.
The endocannabinoid system is believed to play an important role in the control of appetite, food intake, energy balance and body composition. Overeating/obesity can cause the endocannabinoid system to become overactive which can affect feedback mechanisms and disrupt energy and hormonal homeostasis (Banni et al., 2011; Batetta et al., 2009; Di Marzo 2008; Matias et al., 2008; Piscitelli et al., 2011;). Since krill oil appears to reduce endocannabinoid levels (Banni et al., 2011; Piscitelli et al., 2011) it may be beneficial in the treatment of obesity-related metabolic disturbances.
Research looking at the effect of fish oil and krill oil on gene expression and metabolic pathways found that krill oil significantly increased the level of gene expression and metabolic pathways when compared with fish oil (Burri et al., 2011). The researchers found that krill oil had a greater effect on gene expression than fish oil - krill oil increased gene expression in 4,892 genes, whereas omega-3s from fish oil only increased gene expression in 192 genes. In fact there were 52 metabolic pathways that were significantly changed by krill oil with only four changed by fish oil and all four of these pathways were also modulated by krill oil. The researchers stated that krill oil was more bioactive than fish oil in terms of gene expression within the liver. The researchers found that krill oil was able to exert a regulatory effect on liver metabolism including the biosynthesis of lipids and cholesterol, glucose metabolism, and fatty acid metabolism (Burri et al., 2011).
Krill oil and blood lipid/cholesterol levels
A number of studies have found that krill oil is beneficial in the regulation of blood lipids (Batetta et al., 2009; Bunea et al., 2004; Ferramosca et al., 2012; Fosshaug et al., 2011; Tandy et al., 2009; Zhu et al., 2008). Krill oil appears to be more effective in the treatment of raised blood cholesterol than fish oil with approximately 3x greater reduction in total cholesterol level compared with fish oil (Bunea et al., 2004).
The researchers found that a daily dose of 500mg of krill oil may be effective for longer term usage. In another study krill oil significantly decreased total cholesterol levels, triglyceride levels, and serum LDL-cholesterol whilst slightly increasing the levels of HDL-Cholesterol (good cholesterol) (Zhu et al., 2008). A recent animal study also found that krill oil was more effective at reducing levels of liver triglycerides and cholesterol than fish oil (Ferramosca et al., 2012).
Krill Oil and heart protective effect
Krill oil supplementation has been shown to provide a protective effect in the heart (Fosshaug et al., 2011). In this study supplementation with krill oil was found to increase the levels of both EPA and DHA in the heart. The researchers found that supplementation with krill oil prior to a heart attack provided a level of protection against some of the damage caused by a heart attack.
Krill oil supplementation and DHA levels in the brain.
Researchers have demonstrated significant increases in the levels of the omega-3 fatty acid, docosahexaenoic acid (DHA), in the brain following Krill oil supplementation (Di Marzo et al., 2010). The researchers did not find any significant increase in DHA levels in the Brain following fish oil supplementation and therefore it appears that omega-3 esterfied to phospholipids may have greater bioavailability and be able to cross the blood brain barrier more easily than omega-3 from fish oil.
Swarm of Krill
Krill Oil and Brain HealthKrill oil contains significant amounts of DHA which is known to be a major component of membrane phospholipids of the nervous system and is important for brain function and metabolism, and appears to have a neuroprotective effect (Rapoport et al., 2011; Bazan 2009; Bazan 2003;Salem et al., 2001;). Krill oil also provides a source of phospholipids – a major component of all cell membranes including the nerve fibres in our brains.
Researchers have found that DHA provides a level of neuroprotection (Mayurasakorn et al., 2011) and recently lower levels of red blood cell DHA - an important indicator of DHA intake (O'Brien et al., 2009) - were found to be associated with smaller brain volumes (Tan et al., 2012). Since the concentration of DHA in the brain is dependent on dietary intake, it is important that sufficient DHA requirements are met by either adequate dietary intake of through supplements like krill oil.
Krill oil is also a source of astaxanthin, a powerful antioxidant, that is believed to pass through the blood brain barrier. Researchers have found that astaxanthin significantly inhibits free radical generation and has been found to have a neuroprotective effect (Liu and Osawa 2009; Shen et al., 2009; Lu et al., 2010). The neuroprotective effect of asataxanthin appears to be due to a combination of its antioxidant activity, anti-inflammatory activity, mitochondrial protection and improving mitochondrial function.
Krill oil arthritis and anti-inflammatory markers
Krill oil appears to inhibit the inflammation associated with arthritis, may alleviate some of the arthritis symptoms, and could inhibit the development of arthritis (Deutsch, L 2007;Ierna et al., 2010;).
In an animal study krill oil supplementation significantly inhibited the development of arthritis (Ierna et al., 2010;). The researchers found that Krill oil significantly reduced cartilage erosion, the thickening of the synovial membrane, and was found to be more effective than fish oil. In fact the Krill oil was found to reduce the severity of arthritis by about 50%. The researchers suggest that the antioxidant, astaxanthin, may contribute to the beneficial effects of krill oil on arthritis through its anti-inflammatory effect.
Krill oil appears to significantly inhibit inflammation with daily doses of just 300mg (Deutsch, L 2007). In this study krill oil reduced C-reactive protein (CRP) – one of the most useful biomarkers of inflammation - which is known to be increased in inflammatory conditions like rheumatoid arthritis. In fact elevated CRP appears to increase the risk of a number of diseases including heart disease, high blood pressure and diabetes. Therefore any reduction in CRP by krill oil could be beneficial in the treatment/prevention of inflammatory related diseases. Current research suggests that krill oil, through a combination of astaxanthin and omega-3s, possesses potent anti-inflammatory properties.
Krill Oil Bioavailability
A number of studies have demonstrated the improved bioavailability of krill oil when compared with fish oil (Schuchardt et al., 2011; Ulven et al., 2011; Burri et al., 2011). Researchers have demonstrated that the omega-3 fatty acids were absorbed more efficiently from Krill oil when compared with the same dose of omega-3 from fish oils (Schuchardt et al., 2011). It has been suggested that the enhanced bioavailability of omega-3s in krill may be due to the esterification of phospholipids and omega-3 which may improve its uptake in the intestines and across cell membranes.
Krill oil has also been found to contain relatively high concentrations of EPA and DHA as free fatty acids - 22% of total EPA and 21% of total DHA were found to be in the free fatty acid form rather than bound to phospholipids (Schuchardt et al., 2011). The researchers suggested that the presence of relatively high levels of omega-3 as free fatty acids may improve the bioavailability of the EPA and DHA in krill oil. Therefore it may be a combination of the omega-3s bound to phospholipids and the omega-3s as free fatty acids that enhance its bioavailability compared with fish oil.
Krill oil's antioxidant activity
Krill oil contains astaxanthin, a potent antioxidant with anti-inflammatory properties (Fassett and Coombes 2011, Riccioni et al., 2011), which is believed to be responsible for some of the beneficial anti-inflammatory effects seen with krill oil (Piscitelli et al., 2011; Ierna et al., 2010;). Research suggests that astaxanthin may be beneficial for cardiovascular health (Fassett and Coombes 2011, Riccioni et al., 2011) and may also play a role in increasing HDL-cholesterol – the good cholesterol – and decreasing triglyceride levels (Ulven et al., 2011; Yoshida et al., 2010).
Krill Oil and colitis
Krill oil appears to have a potential protective effect against colitis - inflammation of the colon - and may be beneficial in its treatment (Grimstad et al., 2012). Krill oil may be beneficial in th treatment of colitis due to it's anti-inflammatory and anti-oxidant properties.
Krill Oil and premenstrual symptoms
Another area of interest is in the use of krill oil for the treatment of premenstrual symptoms. Research suggests that Krill oil may help to reduce the the symptoms (physical and emotional) of premenstrual syndrome (PMS) more effectively than fish oil (Sampalis et al., 2003). The improved effectiveness of the fish oil could be to the greater bioavailability of krill oil omega-3s and the presence of phospholipids which help to maintain cell membranes and hormone activities.
Krill oils anti-cancer properties
Krill oil appears to possess some anti-cancer properties (Zhu et al., 2008). In a study (Zhu et al., 2008) looking at the exposure of human cancer cells to different concentrations of krill oil for 48 hours, found that cancer cell growth was inhibited in a dose dependent manner (i.e. the greater the dose the greater the inhibition). Krill oil was also found to inhibit cancer cells in a time dependent manner with more pronounced inhibition occuring at 72 hours and 120 hours post treatment.
Is Krill oil effective?
Research has found that Krill oil has a greater bio-availability and bio-activity than fish oils. Some of the beneficial effects attributed to krill oil include: regulation of cholesterol levels, modulation of metabolic pathways and metabolic disorders, reduces inflammation, aids symptoms and progression of arthritis, alleviates some premenstrual symptoms, may improve brain and heart health, possible benefit for colitis.How to take Krill oil?
Research has generally looked at the effects of a daily dosage of between 1-3g of krill oil. The beneficial effects appear to increase in a dose dependent manner (i.e. greater benefits were seen with the higher doses. However, researchers found that a maintenance dose of just 500mg daily was significantly effective for longer term regulation of blood lipids.Krill oil safety
Research has found that Krill oil appears to be safe and well tolerated (Ulven et al., 2011; Batetta et al., 2009;Maki et al., 2009; Deutsch, L 2007). Because krill oil comes from a marine crustacean, people with seafood allergies should avoid krill oil. Also people with blood disorders or those taking blood thinning medication, anti-inflammatory drugs, or blood thinning herbs like ginkgo biloba should consult their health/medical practitioner before taking krill oil.References
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Batetta B, Griinari M, Carta G, Murru E, Ligresti A, Cordeddu L, Giordano E, Sanna F, Bisogno T, Uda S, Collu M, Bruheim I, Di Marzo V, Banni S. (2009) Endocannabinoids may mediate the ability of (n-3) fatty acids to reduce ectopic fat and inflammatory mediators in obese Zucker rats. J Nutr. 2009 Aug;139(8):1495-501. Epub 2009 Jun 23.
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Tou J. C., Jaczynski J., Chen Y. C. (2007). Krill for human consumption: nutritional value and potential health benefits. Nutr. Rev. 65, 63–77. doi: 10.1111/j.1753-4887.2007.tb00283.x.
Ulven SM, Kirkhus B, Lamglait A, Basu S, Elind E, Haider T, Berge K, Vik H, Pedersen JI. (2011) Metabolic effects of krill oil are essentially similar to those of fish oil but at lower dose of EPA and DHA, in healthy volunteers. Lipids. 2011 Jan;46(1):37-46. Epub 2010 Nov 2.
Wijendran V, Huang M, Diau G, Boehm G, Nathanielsz P, Brenna J. (2002) Efficacy of dietary arachidonic acid provided as triglyceride or phospholipid as substrates for brain arachidonic acid accretion in baboon neonates. Pediatr Res. 2002;51(3):265–272. doi: 10.1203/00006450-200203000-00002.
Winther B., Hoem N., Berge K., Reubsaet L. (2011). Elucidation of phosphatidylcholine composition in krill oil extracted from Euphausia superba. Lipids 46, 25–36. doi: 10.1007/s11745-010-3472-6
Yoshida H, Yanai H, Ito K, Tomono Y, Koikeda T, Tsukahara H, Tada N. (2010) Administration of natural astaxanthin increases serum HDL-cholesterol and adiponectin in subjects with mild hyperlipidemia. Atherosclerosis. 2010;209:520–523. doi: 10.1016/j.atherosclerosis.2009.10.012
Zhu JJ, Shi JH, Qian WB, Cai ZZ, Li D. (2008) Effects of krill oil on serum lipids of hyperlipidemic rats and human SW480 cells. Lipids Health Dis. 2008 Aug 29;7:30.
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2) Krill Oil Versus Fish Oil
When selecting nutritional supplements we all strive to use the most effective products available. But what should we base that determination on? One option is to ask others about their personal experiences. This is commonly referred to as anecdotal evidence. Another source of data can be found in the scientific literature. Here we’re trusting that researchers are performing well designed and impartial research in a more controlled manner. Since these types of studies typically involve larger groups of people, the results may apply to broad segments of the population. But there’s another very prevalent manner of learning about dietary supplements and that is information provided by the manufacturers themselves. My contention is that we ought to examine all three sources of input.
Ask questions of your colleagues, family and friends. Read the product literature provided by nutraceutical companies and pose any inquires that you might have. Finally, investigate whether modern science has produced any evidence to back up the other two sources. I’ll apply this model to examine an area of debate that’s currently active in the natural health community: Is krill oil superior to fish oil?
Krill oil is a supplemental source of powerful antioxidants, omega-3 fatty acids and phosholipids derived from tiny crustaceans harvested largely in the Southern Ocean waters of the Antarctic. Krill oil proponents claim that it is essentially a superior form of omega-3s. Krill contain a rather unique reddish antioxidant called astaxanthin, and they’re also rich in phospholipids, which help emulsify fatty acids and enhance their absorption and retention.
A new study presented in the Journal of Nutrition appears to support this point of view. Research conducted in a group of overweight rats found that krill oil provoked a 42% decrease in fat (triglyceride) build-up in the hearts of the test rats. Fish oil only lead to a marginal decline in cardio-lipids of 2%. When the authors of the study examined the livers of these animals, they discovered a 60% reduction in fat in their livers, as opposed to 38% in the livers of rats fed fish oil. The normalization of fat content in the heart and liver indicate potential benefits to overall heart function and an improvement in insulin sensitivity, which can be impaired in cases of fatty liver disease. In addition, the krill oil test subjects exhibited positive changes associated with a reduced “inflammatory response”.
A study from 2008 demonstrated anti-cancer and heart benefits in relation to krill oil (KO) supplementation. In that trial, rats who were fed KO showed weight loss and a drop in LDL “bad” cholesterol, total cholesterol and triglyceride levels. The scientists also tested krill oil in an in-vitro model of colon cancer. The scientists concluded that, “Treatment of colon cancer cells with KO also resulted in time-dependent inhibition of cell growth”.
Krill oil has also been evaluated in other health conditions as well. The results of those studies have all been positive and, in a roundabout way, can be applied to what we currently know about heart disease.
- In 2007, a paper was published in the Journal of the American College of Nutrition. 90 participants with heart disease and/or arthritis (osteo or rheumatoid) with elevated CRP (C-reactive protein) levels were provided with KO or a placebo for a 30 day period. CRP is a measure of inflammation in the body. By the 7th day of treatment with KO (300 mg daily), there was a 19% drop in CRP levels. The placebo group exhibited a 16% increase in CRP. By the 30th day of treatment, there was a 31% reduction in CRP in the krill oil group and a 32% rise in CRP in the placebo group. In the arthritic patients, there were significant improvements in pain and stiffness scores, and a trend towards “reduced functional impairment”.
- A 2003 study on 70 women with PMS and dysmenorrhea (painful menstruation) found that those taking KO for a total of 90 days demonstrated reduced discomfort, pain and emotional symptoms relating to PMS. This experiment compared equal dosages of KO vs. fish oil – 2 grams daily for the first 30 days and then 2 grams daily for 8 days prior to menstruation and during the first 2 days of the menstrual cycle.
There are several other important factors to consider when comparing fish oil and krill oil. Preliminary studies going back to the mid 90s demonstrate that krill oil appears to be safe. However, some manufacturers and health authorities caution that those with severe shellfish allergies should discuss krill oil with their physicians prior to usage. It’s also important to note that fish oil has been studied extensively over the past several decades. Literally thousands of research papers have been published on the health effects of omega-3 fatty acids found in fish. Fewer than 10 studies on krill oil have been presented in peer reviewed medical journals.
When I looked over all of the reliable data I could find about krill oil, I came to the following conclusion. Krill oil seems to be an extremely promising antioxidant/omega-3 supplement. Substantial evidence suggests that the astaxanthin content of krill largely contributes to its net effect. Astaxanthin is the same carotenoid that gives wild salmon its pink hue. But there may also be something to the phospholipid content of this crustacean. That’s the only explanation I’ve found as to why a lower dosage of KO could produce equal or greater effects than higher dosages of fish oil.
Be forewarned: Krill oil can be quite expensive. The real question is how much you’ll need to take to derive the same benefits as I’ve reported here. If you need a lower dosage, such as 500 mg, then it can be relatively affordable. But some users may require larger quantities (2-3 grams a day). The best deal I’ve found online costs roughly £25 for 90 (500mg) softgels. I think at that price, it’s certainly worth a shot for anyone who might benefit from it. I also think that KO may be an attractive alternative, because krill softgels are typically smaller in size and have a milder aroma.
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3) Krill Oil VS Fish Oil Supplements – Which Omega 3 Is Better And Should You Be Taking Them?
July 15, 2011 by Keven MacMillian
For years we’ve heard all of the experts tell us how important it is to take Omega 3 supplements. But when it comes to “the best,” who wins the battler of krill oil vs fish oil? Chances are that if you ended up here you have probably heard that krill oil is better than fish oil supplements. Let me just clear this up right away — it’s true. Although I wouldn’t say that I wouldn’t take fish oil, it’s clear that krill oil is the superior choice for an Omega 3 supplement.
Before I get into this I want just say that I’m not bashing fish oil supplements at all. In fact, I’ve taken them for years and I believe that they do provide great benefits. All I’m saying here is that since I’ve learned of the fish oil alternative, the decision between krill oil and fish oil is an easy one. There has even been a lot of different scientific research that prove the benefits to taking krill oil supplements are better than fish oil supplements. Either way though, I feel that the quality of the supplement you choose is very important.
Krill Oil VS Fish Oil
Okay, so just why is krill oil better than fish oil? As I mentioned, there have been numerous studies that have proven krill oil is a more beneficial Omega 3 supplement than fish oil. In the research paper referenced above from Pub Med the study was conducted with this objective:
To assess the effects of krill oil on blood lipids, specifically total cholesterol, triglycerides, low-density lipoprotein (LDL), and high-density lipoprotein (HDL).
The outcome was clear as we can see by their findings:
Krill oil 1-3 g per day (BMI-dependent) was found to be effective for the reduction of glucose, total cholesterol, triglycerides, LDL, and HDL, compared to both fish oil and placebo … At lower and equal doses, krill oil was significantly more effective than fish oil for the reduction of glucose, triglycerides, and LDL levels.
In addition to these findings there are still other reasons that in a direct comparison of krill oil vs fish oil, krill oil is the better choice. Some of the reasons why krill oil was found to be superior to fish oil are:
- Krill oil does not contain the contaminants that regular fish oil has because krill are a deep see fish. They also do not contain the high mercury levels that regular fish oil has.
- Krill oil is pure and concentrated which provides much more benefit than regular fish oil.
- The Omega 3 fatty acids in krill oil bind to our cells better than regular fish oil.
- The antioxidant levels in krill oil vs fish oil is much greater and highly concentrated.
- Krill oil is absorbed into our blood stream quicker than fish oil which helps prevent the fishy after-taste.
Here’s a comparison chart that shows just a few of the benefits mentioned above:
Is Krill Oil Good For Weight Loss?
What about the benefits krill oil has for weight loss?
Omega 3 supplements — whether krill oil or fish oil — aid in fat loss because they reduce your insulin levels. When insulin levels are high, your body cannot use it’s fat for fuel. Because of all of the benefits to krill oil when compared to fish oil, I have to say krill oil wins hands down.
Whether for weight loss or for overall health, krill oil (and even fish oil) does have great benefits. In addition to what we’ve already mentioned, you can
- improve your memory,
- alleviate PMS symptoms,
- protect your heart,
- lower your cholesterol,
- boost your energy levels and
- relieve joint pain
References:
Kalmijn S, van Boxtel MP, Ocké M, et al. Dietary intake of fatty acids and fish in relation to cognitive performance at middle age. Neurology. 2004; 62(2): 275-80.
Innis SM. Dietary (n–3) fatty acids and brain development. J Nutr. 2007; 137: 855-859.
Lagarde M, Bernoud N, Brossard N, et al. Lysophosphatidylcholine as a preferred carrier form of docosahexaenoic acid to the brain. J Mol Neurosci. 2001; 16: 201-4.
Wainwright PE. Dietary essential fatty acids and brain function: a developmental perspective on mechanisms. Proc Sci Nutr. 2002; 61: 61-69.
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4) Discover Nature’s Most Potent Anti-Inflammatory: Krill Oil
In the ocean surrounding the continent of Antarctica there are millions of tons of a natural resource known for healing a host of ailments and serious health conditions. It’s called krill oil, and it’s derived from a tiny shrimp-like crustacean species called krill.
After years of research and clinical studies, there is now scientific proof to support the evidence of this amazing nutrient’s effectiveness in treating high cholesterol… blood pressure problems… aching joints… PMS symptoms… and more.
Not only is krill oil safe and natural, but it’s also renewable, since, at best count, up to 600 million tons can be found in the chilly waters off Antarctica.
Why Krill Oil?
The reason krill oil is more effective than other marine oils is because it’s full of healthy omega-3 fatty acids, phospholipids and extremely potent antioxidants.1 It’s the unique combination of these essential ingredients that provides the greatest health benefits.
Harvested only two months out of the year under responsible fishing regulations, the krill are flash-frozen to maintain the potency of their therapeutic oil.
Benefits of Omega Fatty Acids
Both omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids are essential for your diet since your body doesn’t produce them on its own.
Krill oil contains a healthy balance of omega-3 fatty acid and omega-6 fatty acid — which helps fight infection. These two fatty acids need each other and work together to prevent other inflammation-related ailments like heart disease, arthritis and diabetes. A healthy balance of these fatty acids helps to prevent blood clotting, lower blood pressure and relieve inflammation.
The Power of Phospholipids
Phospholipids are fats that help keep your cells functioning by providing a protective membrane around each cell to block out toxins and disease-forming free radicals.
The fats found in krill oil most closely resemble the phospholipids found in your brain that are responsible for maintaining the brain chemical that controls your memory, muscle function, mood, sleep patterns and organs like your heart.
The Protection of Antioxidants
Results from laboratory tests show that krill oil contains a powerful cocktail of antioxidants, which are not only beneficial for your continued health, but also sustain the shelf life of the oil.
Krill oil provides you with an ample supply of vitamins A, E and D, plus minerals such as potassium, sodium and zinc. And it also contains large amounts of the B-complex nutrient, choline.
However, the most powerful antioxidant in krill oil is astaxanthin. This nutrient is responsible for fighting free radicals within the body and protecting the blood-brain barrier — which means it protects the eye, brain and central nervous system from free radical damage.
Krill Oil for Your Aching Joints
If you suffer from creaking, cracking joints… stiff hands and fingers… lingering back pain… or sore swollen legs due to recurrent inflammation, then krill oil may be the miracle you have been searching for!
In a double-blind study,1 45 patients with rheumatoid arthritis or osteoarthritis were administered 300 mg of krill oil. After only seven days, inflammation was reduced by 19 percent, pain was reduced 24 percent, stiffness was reduced by 21 percent and immobility was reduced by 16 percent!
How does this all-natural pain reliever work so well? It’s the combination of the trio of anti-inflammatory ingredients — omega fatty acids, phospholipids and numerous powerful antioxidants.
Ease Your Symptoms of Premenstrual Syndrome (PMS)
As many as 97 percent of women of reproductive age experience the recurring symptoms of PMS including cramps, water retention, bloating, weight gain and emotional mood swings.1 But krill oil has been proven to relieve your worst symptoms!
In a randomized, double-blind study, researchers in Montreal studied the effects of krill oil on PMS, and patients reported a significant improvement in all 10 physical and mental symptoms examined and measured. The findings show that krill oil can:1
- Ease abdominal pain and uterine cramps.
- Relive nausea, bloating and fatigue.
- Alleviate headaches as well as joint and body aches.
- Lessen PMS-related breast tenderness.
- Improve erratic mood swings and food cravings.
- Help prevent menstrual-related feelings of anxiety, depression and stress.
Reduce Your Chances of Heart Disease
High total cholesterol and high “bad” LDL cholesterol can be major risk factors for heart disease or a fatal heart disaster.
In a clinical study conducted by Canadian researchers from the University of Montreal,1 the findings show that krill oil significantly reduced several risk factors for high cholesterol.
In fact, the results showed a:
- Reduction in total cholesterol by 13 percent.
- Decrease in “bad” LDL cholesterol by 32 percent.
- Reduction in triglycerides by 11 percent.
- Increase in “good” HDL cholesterol by 44 percent.
Krill oil has been shown to outperform fish oil supplements when it comes to lowering your bad LDL cholesterol levels. Patients who took 1 to 1.5 grams of krill oil a day — compared to three times the dose of standard fish oil — showed a significantly greater decrease in bad cholesterol than the fish oil patients.
In an Oxygen Radical Absorbance Capacity (ORAC) test,1 krill oil was shown to contain 300 times the amount of vitamin A and E, plus 48 times the antioxidant power of standard omega-3 fish oils.
It’s no wonder that the manufacturers of fish oil don’t want you to hear about this magnificent natural resource — they would be out of business with results like these!
For much-needed relief from joint pain and PMS symptoms, plus reduced LDL cholesterol levels, I recommend nature’s amazing anti-inflammatory and antioxidant remedy — krill oil. Once you see and feel the results you may never want to take standard fish oil supplements again!
Reference
- The Healing Power of Neptune Krill Oil. Tina Sampalis, Medical Doctor & Ph.D., 2005.
Further Reading & References
Bunea R, El Farrah K, Deutsch L. Evaluation of the effects of Neptune Krill Oil on the clinical course of hyperlipidemia. Altern Med Rev. 2004 Dec;9(4):420-8.
Sampalis F, Bunea R, Pelland MF, Kowalski O, Duquet N, Dupuis S. Evaluation of the effects of Neptune Krill Oil on the management of premenstrual syndrome and dysmenorrhea. Altern Med Rev. 2003 May;8(2):171-9.
Stone NJ. Fish consumption, fish oil: lipids, and coronary heart disease. Circulation. 1996;94:2337-2340.
Simopoulos AP. Omega 3 fatty acids in health and disease and in growth and development. Am J Clin Nutr. 1991;54:438-463.
Sampalis T, Evaluation of the Effect of NKO on Biomarkers of Chronic Inflammation in vivo. JSS medical research, inc. June 9, 2004, unpublished.
Knapp HR. Dietary fatty acids in human thrombosis and hemostasis. Am J Clin Nutr. 1997;65(suppl):1687S-1698S.
Horrobin DF. The role of essential fatty acids and prostaglandins in the premenstrual syndrome. J Reprod Med 1983;28:465-468.
Simopoulos AP. Omega-3 fatty acids in health and disease and in growth and development. Am J Clin Nutr 1991;54:438-463.
Malle E, Kostner GM. Effects of fish oils on lipid variables and platelet function indices. Prostaglandins Leukot Essent Fatty, Acids 1993:49:645-663.
Harel Z, Biro FM, Kottenhahn RK, Rosenthal SL. Supplementation with omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids in the management of dysmenorrhea in adolescents. Am J Obstet Gynecol 1996;174:1335-1338.
Dupuis, Sebastien. Evaluation of the effects of Neptune Krill Oil[TM] on the management of premenstrual syndrome and dysmenorrhea. (Krill Oil & PMS). Alternative Medicine Review . May, 2003
Alexander JW. Immunonutrition: the role of omega-3 fatty acids.Nutr 1998;14:627-33.
Toft I, Bonaa KH, Ingebretsen OC, et al. Effects of n-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids on glucose homeostasis and blood pressure in essential hypertension. Ann Intern Med 1995;123:911–8.
Dunstan DW, Burke V, Mori TA, et al. The independent and combined effects of aerobic exercise and dietary fish intake on serum lipids and glycemic control in NIDDM. Diabetes Care 1997; 20:913–21.
Von Schacky C, Angerer P, Kothny W, et al. The effect of dietary omega-3 fatty acids on coronary atherosclerosis. A randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial. Ann Intern Med 1999;130:554-62.
Maes M, Smith R, Christophe A, et al. Fatty acid composition in major depression: decreased omega 3 fractions in cholesteryl esters and increased C20: 4 omega 6/C20:5 omega 3 ratio in cholesteryl esters and phospholipids. J Affect Disord 1996;38:35–46.
Edwards R, Peet M, Shay J, Horrobin D. Omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acid levels in the diet and in red blood cell membranes of depressed patients. J Affect Disord 1998;48:149–55.
Saynor, R. and Gillott, T. Changes in blood lipids and fibrinogen with a note on safety in a long term study on the effects of n-3 fatty acids in subjects receiving fish oil supplements and followed for seven years. Lipids, Vol. 27, July 1992, pp. 533-38
Gogos, Charalambos A., et al. Dietary omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids plus vitamin E restore immunodeficiency and prolong survival for severely ill patients with generalized malignancy. Cancer, Vol. 82, January 15, 1998, pp. 395-402
Yang, Y.J., et al. Comparison of fatty acid profiles in the serum of patients with prostate cancer and benign prostatic hyperplasia. Clinical Biochemistry, Vol. 32, August 1999, pp. 405-09
Cave, W.T. Jr. Dietary omega-3 polyunsaturated fats and breast cancer. Nutrition, Vol. 12 (suppl), January 1996, pp. S39-42
Siguel, E.N. and Lerman, R.H. Prevalence of essential fatty acid deficiency in patients with chronic gastrointestinal disorders. Metabolism, Vol. 45, January 1996, pp. 12-23
Pepping, Joseph. Omega-3 essential fatty acids. American Journal of Health-System Pharmacy, Vol. 56, April 15, 1999, pp. 719-24
Kalmijn, S., et al. Polyunsaturated fatty acids, antioxidants, and cognitive function in very old men. American Journal of Epidemiology, Vol. 145, January 1, 1997, pp. 33-41
Yehuda, S., et al. Essential fatty acids preparation (SR-3) improves Alzheimer's patients quality of life. International Journal of Neuroscience, Vol. 87(3-4), November 1996, pp. 141-9
Hibbeln, Joseph R. and Salem, Norman. Dietary polyunsaturated fatty acids and depression: when cholesterol does not satisfy. American Journal of Clinical Nutrition, Vol. 62, July 1995, pp. 1-9
Stevens, Laura J., et al. Essential fatty acid metabolism in boys with attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder. American Journal of Clinical Nutrition, Vol. 62, No. 4, October 1995, pp. 761-68
Dry, J. and Vincent, D. Effect of a fish oil diet on asthma: results of a 1-year double-blind study. International Archives of Allergy and Applied Immunology, Vol. 95, No. 2/3, 1991, pp. 156-7
Research with Children
Portwood, MM. The role of dietary fatty acids in children's behaviour and learning. Nutr Health. 2006;18(3):233-47
Antalis, CJ., Stevens LJ, Campbell M, Pazdro R, Ericson K, Burgess JR. Omega-3 fatty acid status in attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder. Prostaglandins Leukot Essent Fatty Acids. 2006 Oct-Nov;75(4-5):299-308. Epub 2006 Sep 8.
Amminger GP, Berger GE, Schafer MR, Klier C, Friedrich MH, Feucht M. Omega-3 fatty acids supplementation in children with autism: a double-blind randomized, placebo-controlled pilot study. Biol Psychiatry. 2007 Feb 15;61(4):551-3. Epub 2006 Aug 22.
Auestad N, Scott DT, Janowsky JS, Jacobsen C, Carroll RE, Montalto MB, Halter R, Qiu W, Jacobs JR, Connor WE, Connor SL, Taylor JA, Neuringer M, Fitzgerald M. Visual, cognitive, and language assessments at 39 months: a follow-up study of children fed formulas containing long-chain polyunsaturated fatty acids to 1 year of age. Pediatrics. 2003 Sep;112(3 Pt 1):e177-83
Richardson AJ. Omega-3 fatty acids in ADHD and related neurodevelopmental disorders. Int Rev Psychiatry. 2006 Apr;18(2):155-72.
Richardon AJ, Montgomery P. The Oxford-Durham study: a randomized, controlled trial of dietary supplementation with fatty acids in children with developmental coordination disorder. Pediatrics. 2005 May;115(5):1360-6.
Stevens LJ, Zentall SS, Abate ML, Kuczek T, Burgess JR; Omega-3 fatty acids in boys with behavior, learning, and health problems. Physiol Behav, Volume 59 o Issue 4-5.
FDA Disclaimer: These statements have not been evaluated by the FDA. This product is not
intended to diagnose, cure or prevent any diseases. Testimonials are not a guarantee of your
results. Your individual results may vary.
5) Evaluation of the effects of Krill Oil on the clinical course of hyperlipidemia (high cholesterol).
Bunea R, El Farrah K, Deutsch L.
Source
Department of Internal Medicine, McGill University, Montreal, Quebec, Canada.Abstract
OBJECTIVE:
To assess the effects of krill oil on blood lipids, specifically total cholesterol, triglycerides, low-density lipoprotein (LDL), and high-density lipoprotein (HDL).METHODS:
A multi-center, three-month, prospective, randomized study followed by a three-month, controlled follow-up of patients treated with 1 g and 1.5 g krill oil daily. Patients with hyperlipidemia able to maintain a healthy diet and with blood cholesterol levels between 194 and 348 mg per dL were eligible for enrollment in the trial. A sample size of 120 patients (30 patients per group) was randomly assigned to one of four groups. Group A received krill oil at a body mass index (BMI)-dependent daily dosage of 2-3 g daily. Patients in Group B were given 1-1.5 g krill oil daily, and Group C was given fish oil containing 180 mg eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and 120 mg docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) per gram of oil at a dose of 3 g daily. Group D was given a placebo containing microcrystalline cellulose. The krill oil used in this study was Neptune Krill Oil, provided by Neptune Technologies and Bioresources, Laval, Quebec, Canada.OUTCOME MEASURES:
Primary parameters tested (baseline and 90-day visit) were total blood cholesterol, triglycerides, LDL, HDL, and glucose.RESULTS:
Krill oil 1-3 g per day (BMI-dependent) was found to be effective for the reduction of glucose, total cholesterol, triglycerides, LDL, and HDL, compared to both fish oil and placebo.CONCLUSIONS:
The results of the present study demonstrate within high levels of confidence that krill oil is effective for the management of hyperlipidemia by significantly reducing total cholesterol, LDL, and triglycerides, and increasing HDL levels. At lower and equal doses, krill oil was significantly more effective than fish oil for the reduction of glucose, triglycerides, and LDL levels.The above Research Paper is available in Full on PubMed.
Scientific Research Papers and Articles on Krill Oil:
http://www.howardgroupinc.com/Portals/0/neptune/research/Article%20hyperlipidemia.pdf
http://www.thorne.com/altmedrev/.fulltext/15/1/84.pdf
http://www.fbhw-mn.org/more/omega3_fatty_acids.pdf
http://biomedicine.com/documents/Asta-X-Krill%20monograph.pdf
http://www.bfr.bund.de/cm/343/efsa_opinion_on_the_safety_of_lipid_extract_from_euphausia_superba.pdf
http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/17353582
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