Differences Of Krill Oil Vs. Fish Oil

Fish oil or krill oil -- it is tough to know which is the best source of heart-healthy omega-3 fatty acids. Several claims state that krill oil is more effective at lowering cholesterol, eliminating arthritis pain and reducing the risk of heart disease, but it can cost up to 10 times more than a comparable bottle of fish oil. There's some debate whether these little crustaceans are really that much better for your health.

Fish Oil

Fish oil has gain popularity since 2004 when the U.S. Food and Drug Administration announced that its primary compounds, eicosapentaenoic acid and docosahexaenoic acid, are associated with reducing the risks of cardiovascular disease. Fish oil is available through a variety of supplements as well as from fatty, oily fish, such as tuna, halibut and salmon. Other research suggests that fish oil may also improve inflammation caused by arthritis, lower cholesterol and be key in the prevention of Alzeheimer’s disease.

Krill Oil

Krill are crustaceans, similar to shrimp, from the Antarctic Ocean. Whales, seals, penguins and squid consume these omega-3 rich creatures. The oil from krill is high in EPA and DHA, the omega-3 nutrients associated with improved cardiovascular health.

The Research

Several manufacturers have latched onto the results of studies that concluded that krill oil supplements were superior to fish oil supplements. Two studies, one published in February 2007 in the “Journal of the American College of Nutrition” and the other published in December 2004 in the “Alternative Medicine Review,” and both funded by manufacturers of krill oil, showed krill was more effective than fish oil for lowering the risk of heart disease and reducing markers of inflammation. The conflict of interest in funding is a red flag for the credibility of these results.

Your Health

One study, published in January 2011 in “Lipids,” did show that krill was as effective as fish oil in reducing markers of inflammation and oxidative stress, but at lower doses. Of course, the study concludes that those lower doses are only slight. One researcher, who specializes in omega-3 studies at the University of South Dakota Sanford School of Medicine relayed that there may be evidence that the EPA and DHA in krill oil is better absorbed than fish, around 20 to 30 percent better. However, he does feel that this amount is enough for anyone to justify the additional cost of krill oil. When it comes to your health, there is not sufficient evidence that krill oil is better than fish oil.