If you have been following trending health news, you may have encountered many health buffs raving about the benefits of krill oil. As of late, this oil is getting the attention of many because it is often regarded as an effective alternative to fish oil. While its superiority over fish oil is still open for debate, krill oil does have significant health benefits, including:
Good Source of Healthy Fats
People have this misconception about fat. At the mention of fat, many would immediately assume that it is all bad for their health. Contrary to popular belief, there are good kinds of fat like omega-3 fatty acids, which are naturally found in many food items such as avocados and salmon. Studies have already shown that the fats present in krill oil are more beneficial to the body compared with those that come from fish oil. In fish oil, the omega-3 fatty acid is stored as triglycerides. Conversely, those found in krill oil are stored as phospholipids, which have a higher bloodstream absorption rate.
Reducing Inflammation
Krill oil is also known to have significant anti-inflammatory benefits compared with other omega-3 sources. This could be due to the high absorption rate and the presence of astaxanthin, a pink-orange pigment with antioxidant and anti-inflammatory functions. Some studies have found that krill oil has a positive effect on improving the integrity of the intestinal barrier.
Improving Joint Health
Since this oil has anti-inflammatory effects, it is also helpful in reducing the symptoms of arthritis and joint pain. This finding is supported by a study that found that oil derived from krill is beneficial in lowering functional impairments, stiffness, and pain in individuals diagnosed with rheumatoid or osteoarthritis.
Enhancing Cardiovascular Health
Fish oil is considered to be heart-healthy as it can help improve the levels of blood lipids. Like fish oil, krill oil has significant positive effects on lowering triglyceride levels and other blood fats. Compared with olive oil, krill oil is also useful in improving insulin resistance.
Managing Symptoms of PMS
Premenstrual syndrome (PMS) has symptoms that vary widely, but they all involve pain and inflammation, such as headaches, back pain, and cramping. Consumption of omega-3 fatty acids is critical in reducing inflammation and combatting pain. This is why some females nearing their monthly period are often advised to consume fish oil supplements because it helps them manage the symptoms of PMS without having to resort to pain medications, which can be addictive or result in stomach ulcers. The use of krill oil has been established to provide the same effect. A study that tested krill oil against fish oil in patients with PMS found that both oils have similar results, and have been found to reduce PMS symptoms. However, those taking krill oil took lesser amounts of pain medication than those taking the fish oil.
Easy Adaptation
Taking krill oil supplements is a simple and effective way of increasing EPA and DHA levels in your body. Unlike other supplements, krill oil is easy to integrate into your routine since it is widely available and can be easily sourced. The capsules are significantly smaller and easier to digest than most fish oils, so there's no need to worry about a fish-like aftertaste.
Since krill can reproduce more quickly, they are a far more sustainable option than fish for producing this beneficial oil. Note, however, that these benefits make it more expensive than traditional fish oil.
When you want to add the oil to your daily supplements, it would be best to consult your doctor. Some individuals who may be taking medications such as blood thinners may need clearance from their attending physician. Remember, there is no recommended dosage yet, so it is best to follow the manufacturer's instructions and your doctor's advice.
Lora Y