Krill Oil

About Krill Oil

Krill are tiny prawn-like crustaceans that feed on EPA and DHA rich algae. Just like fish, krill accumulate EPA and DHA in their tissues. Though we produce a small amount of EPA and DHA from linolenic acid, our levels increase dramatically with regular supplementation of krill oil, fish oil or algae oils. Krill oil is also a source of astaxanthin, which offers natural anti-inflammatory and antioxidant benefits.

There are differences between krill-based supplements and fish oil, however. Krill EPA and DHA are in phospholipid form, while fish oil contains the ethyl ester (triglyceride) form. Though krill contains a lower EPA and DHA quantity than fish oil, the phospholipid form absorbs at a much higher rate. The phospholipid form of EPA and DHA found in krill oil is believed to be taken up more rapidly by the brain, where it promotes neuronal health and mental wellbeing.

A research review published by Hospital Pharmacy in 2014 indicated that EPA and DHA promote cardiovascular health with effects such as lowered triglycerides, reduced blood pressure, increased plaque stabilisation, reduced platelet aggregation, lowered heart rate and anti-inflammatory effects. These effects have been noted primarily through clinical trials based on fish oil over the course of many decades. Similar results are expected to be obtained from a lower concentration of EPA and DHA from Krill Oil, due to its higher absorption rate.