Krill Oil

About Krill Oil

Krill are tiny prawn-like crustaceans. Like most fish, their diets are high in algae, which are a rich source of EPA and DHA fatty acids. This means that just like fish, krill accumulate a high amount of EPA and DHA because of their algae-rich diets. Human beings are no different in the cycle of EPA and DHA. Though we produce a small amount of our own EPA and DHA, our levels increase dramatically when krill oil, fish oil and specialised algae oils are consumed regularly.

However, there are some big differences between krill-based supplements and fish oil. Krill EPA and DHA are in phospholipid form, while fish oil contains it as an ethyl ester (triglyceride). Though krill contains a lower EPA and DHA concentration than fish oil, the phospholpid form causes them to be absorbed into our system at a much higher rate.

Also, a powerful natural colour called astaxanthin is found in krill oil. Astaxanthin has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects and is believed to be a natural health promoter within itself. So much so that separate astaxanthin products are available for this natural compound.

A research review published by Hospital Pharmacy in 2014 indicated that EPA and DHA offer cardiovascular benefits. These are lowered triglycerides, reduced blood pressure, increased plaque stabilisation, reduced platelet aggregation, lowered heart rate and an anti-inflammatory effect. These effects have been noted primarily through the use of fish oil clinical trials, which have been studied for many decades now. However, it is believed that similar results will be obtained from taking a lower concentration of EPA and DHA from Krill Oil, due to its higher absorption rate. The astaxanthin content of krill oil is an added benefit.