Krill Oil. Brain, Heart & Joint Health

Krill are a source of omega-3 fatty acids, which your body can only get from food or supplements. Omega-3s are a critical part of the membranes surrounding each of your cells. Omega-3s give your body energy and also serve important jobs in your heart, blood vessels, lungs, immune system, and endocrine system.

Krill vs. fish oil

While krill and fish oil both have DHA and EPA, it’s believed that those omega-3 fatty acids found in krill oil have a higher bioavailability — or rate of absorption in your body — than fish oil.

While much study has been conducted on fish oil and omega 3 in general and their health benefits. Studies have also shown health benefits attributed to krill oil. Early research shows that krill oil, like fish oil, may offer the following benefits

Less Inflammation

Research suggests that omega-3s are likely to help with any type of illness involving inflammation in the body. One study showed that taking krill oil reduced pain, stiffness, and inflammation in patients with rheumatoid arthritis. T

PMS Symptom Relief.

There is significant evidence suggesting that taking krill oil can reduce both the pain and emotional effects of PMS. The research shows that krill oil is much more effective for PMS symptoms than is fish oil.

Cardiovascular health.

Research shows that krill oil may be effective in reducing total cholesterol and triglycerides. It may also increase HDL (good) cholesterol levels.

“We know that high triglycerides increase the risk of heart disease,” says Ilic. “There might be an improvement in HDL, but some studies have shown an increase in LDL, which you don’t want to increase.”

Arthritis and joint pain

Another study examined how krill oil may reduce the symptoms of rheumatoid arthritis. Those who took 300 milligrams of krill oil each day for 30 days saw an improvement in symptom reduction and used less rescue medication.

It can also help with pain. A small study gave participants with mild knee pain krill oil for 30 days. The results showed a significant reduction in pain while they were standing or sleeping.