Krill Oil
Krill live in the ocean where they feed on phytoplankton and algae.
There’s a new oil in town and it comes from a little crustacean known as krill. Krill live in the ocean where they feed on phytoplankton and algae. They are eaten by other fish, seals, penguins, whales, and yes, humans too. In recent years, krill has gained notoriety for its omega-3 fatty acids. As a result, krill oil is becoming more and more popular as a dietary supplement.
Current studies suggest that krill oil may have a beneficial effect in easing some symptoms of premenstrual syndrome, menstrual cramps, arthritis, and in helping to reduce cholesterol levels. More research with krill oil is needed before any definite statements can be made regarding its safety and usefulness in human health and disease. While some supplement companies may claim that krill is a better source of omega-3 fatty acids or less “toxic” than other forms of fish, these claims are yet to be conclusively determined.
Krill oil does contain a higher level of astaxanthin, an antioxidant, than other fish oil or flax seed oil. Astaxanthin may protect the central nervous system since it has been shown to cross over the blood-brain barrier, unlike other antioxidants.
A preliminary study on the use of krill oil in individuals with arthritis used 300 milligrams daily of the krill oil (J Am Coll Nutr. 2007 Feb;26(1):39-48). Within a period of one to two weeks, individuals who supplemented the krill oil demonstrated a reduction in inflammation and symptoms of arthritis. Possible side effects may occur in individuals with known allergies to shellfish. Other adverse effects may include diarrhea or indigestion. Individuals on blood thinning medication or non-steroidal anti-inflammatory medication should talk to their doctor prior to considering the use of krill oil (or any dietary supplement for that matter).
March 23, 2010
by Optimum WellnessComments
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