Krill oil is derived from krill, or the species Euphausia superba. They are shrimp-like creatures that are found in all the oceans of the world. The oil derived from krill is rich in essential fatty acids that have been associated with good health and disease prevention. According to What Health Information, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration has not established recommended doses for krill oil.
Omega-3 Fatty Acids
Krill oil contains essential fatty acids called omega-3. These fatty acids are considered essential because they are vital for human health and cannot be produced by the body. The University of Maryland Medical Center reports that omega-3 fatty acids are polyunsaturated fats that are essential for brain function, growth and development. In the human brain, omega-3 fatty acids can improve cognitive and behavioral abilities such as memory and performance. Omega-3 fatty acid intake has also been associated with reduced cardiovascular disease and inflammation, according to the UMMC. The American Heart Association recommends consuming omega-3 fatty acids from dietary sources such as krill and fatty fish at least twice a week.
Eicosapentaenoic acid
Eicosapentaenoic acid or EPA is an omega-3 fatty acid found in cold water fatty fish or marine life like krill. EPA is a polyunsaturated fat that has several beneficial effects on health. The University of Maryland Medical Center reports that EPA promotes cardiovascular health by lowering triglycerides, reducing blood clots, and reducing artery "hardening" or plaque. Other benefits reported by UMMC indicate that EPA may reduce inflammation in individuals suffering from rheumatoid arthritis. EPA intake has also been associated with reduced symptoms of depression.
Docosahexaenoic acid
Docosahexaenoic acid, or DHA, is also an omega-3 fatty acid found in fatty fish along with EPA. The body typically produces small amounts of DHA, but adequate amounts must still be obtained through the diet, according to the UMMC. DHA is needed for proper functioning of the brain, nervous system and vision in adults and infants. Similar to EPA, DHA has multiple benefits that reduce the risk of developing heart disease and inflammation. The UMMC suggests two to three servings of fatty fish per week to obtain 1,250 mg of EPA and DHA. Typically, high doses of omega-3 fatty acids are considered safe.
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