Krill oil

An oil derived from Antarctic krill, used as a dietary supplement

Krill oil capsules

Krill oil is an extract derived from the Antarctic krill, a small, shrimp-like crustacean found in the Southern Ocean. It is commonly used as a dietary supplement due to its high content of omega-3 fatty acids, particularly eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA).

Composition

Krill oil is rich in omega-3 fatty acids, which are essential for human health. Unlike fish oil, the omega-3 fatty acids in krill oil are bound to phospholipids, which may enhance their absorption in the human body. Krill oil also contains astaxanthin, a natural antioxidant that gives the oil its characteristic red color.

Health Benefits

Krill oil is believed to offer several health benefits, including:

• Cardiovascular health: Omega-3 fatty acids are known to support heart health by reducing triglyceride levels, lowering blood pressure, and decreasing the risk of heart disease.
• Anti-inflammatory effects: The anti-inflammatory properties of omega-3s can help reduce symptoms of arthritis and other inflammatory conditions.
• Cognitive function: DHA is a major component of the brain and is thought to support cognitive function and mental health.

Production

Krill oil is harvested from Antarctic krill using sustainable fishing practices. The krill are processed to extract the oil, which is then purified and encapsulated for use as a dietary supplement. The sustainability of krill harvesting is monitored to ensure minimal impact on the ecosystem.

Comparison with Fish Oil

Krill oil capsules

Krill oil and fish oil both provide omega-3 fatty acids, but there are some differences:

• Absorption: The phospholipid form of omega-3s in krill oil may be more easily absorbed than the triglyceride form found in fish oil.
• Antioxidants: Krill oil contains astaxanthin, which is not present in fish oil.
• Taste and odor: Krill oil is often reported to have less of a fishy taste and odor compared to fish oil.

Potential Side Effects

While krill oil is generally considered safe, some individuals may experience side effects such as:

• Gastrointestinal discomfort
• Allergic reactions, particularly in those with shellfish allergies
• Potential interactions with blood-thinning medications

Related pages

• Omega-3 fatty acid
• Fish oil
• Antioxidant