Krill oil, derived from small, ocean-dwelling crustaceans, is an excellent source of two omega-3 fatty acids, eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA), which are also found in fatty fish. Unlike fish oil and other popular omega-3 sources, krill oil also contains medicinal compounds known as endocannabinoids, as well as astaxanthin, an antioxidant similar to beta-carotene. Krill oil products are widely promoted as beneficial sources of omega-3 fatty acids.
Omega-3 Explained
Omega-3 fatty acids are unsaturated fatty acids best known for their role in the prevention of chronic disease, including heart disease. Omega-3 fatty acids are available plant-based forms, such as alpha-linoleic acid (ALA) and linoleic acid (LA), most noted for their occurrence in flaxseed, chia seed and walnut. However, far more research has demonstrated the benefits of EPA and DHA, the forms of omega-3 found predominantly in seafood. Along with fish oil and algae oil, krill oil is an excellent source of DHA and EPA.
Krill Oil Composition
A comprehensive study published in the scientific journal "Lipids" found that krill oil is, on average, comprised of 18.5% omega-3 fatty acids, while other oils, pigments and nutrients comprise the remaining 81.5% of its mass. This is roughly comparable to the levels of omega-3 fatty acids found in other quality sources of the compound. Other notable compounds in krill oil include endocannabinoids, which are chemically similar to medicinal compounds in marijuana, and astoxanthin, which is an antioxidant and a precursor to vitamin A.
Omega-3 Fatty Acid Health Benefits
DHA and EPA in krill oil have been extensively researched for their numerous health-boosting properties. The National Institutes of Health acknowledges DHA-EPA supplements for their ability to reduce levels of triglycerides, or fat in the bloodstream. These compounds can also improve neurological health, cardiovascular health, mental function and immunity. These healthy fats may also help to control inflammation in people suffering from rheumatoid arthritis and inflammatory bowel disease. As an excellent source of DHA and EPA, krill oil may hold potential as a nutritional supplement and naturopathic medicine.
Benefits Specific to Krill Oil
Some of krill oil's benefits are unique among omega-3 supplements. Astaxanthin, which gives the oil its characteristic red coloration, is chemically similar to beta-carotene and acts in a similar capacity. As an antioxidant, it can help to defend against cell damage caused by reactive oxygen molecules. A report published in the ''Journal of Natural Products'' speculated that astaxanthin in krill oil may fight cancer, diabetes, eye disease and weak immunity. Medicinal properties of endocannabinoids are a subject of ongoing research. More studies are needed to evaluate krill oil's benefits compared to other sources of omega-3 fatty acids.
References
- University of Maryland Medical Center: Omega-3 Fatty Acids
- ''Lipids''; Elucidation of Phosphatidylcholine Composition in Krill Oil Extracted from Euphausia superba; B. Winther et al.; 2011
- ''Journal of Natural Products''; Astaxanthin, a carotenoid with potential in human health and nutrition; G. Hussein et al.; 2006
- MedlinePlus: Fish Oil
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