Krill Oil Uses

Krill are a form of shrimp-like cold water plankton. They provide an integral part of the diet of whale sharks, seals and baleen whales. When crushed, Krill release an oil that some studies show has a higher concentration of omega-3 fatty acids than regular fish oil. Many doctors claim that Krill oil supplements can reduce cholesterol rates, joint inflammation and the risk of cancer. People with shellfish allergies should consult their physicians before taking krill oil.

Cholesterol reduction

• According to a 1999 study in The Lancet, regular intake of omega-3 fatty acids can significantly reduce the rate of cholesterol-related heart disease. A 2007 McGill University study found that krill oil has a greater effect on heart health than almost any other source of omega-3. This may be because the omega-3 in krill oil is arranged in phospholipid chains, the same molecule structure found in human cell walls, which allows krill oil to be absorbed into the body more rapidly than other foods.

Anti-inflammatory

• A study printed in the Journal of the American College of Nutrition claims krill oil has been effectively proven to reduce arthritis-related pain, while nutritionist Michael Eames, M.D., recommends krill oil as a method of reducing swelling after exercise. This may be because the absorbent phospholipids in krill strengthen cells and improve blood flow. Most advocates of krill oil claim patients must take several weeks of supplements before noticing anti-inflammatory effects.

Cancer Prevention

• Krill oil is rich in the anti-oxidant Astaxanthin, a lipid molecule that slows the growth of the fast-growing free radical cells that have been shown to cause cancer and neurological disease. Some studies claim Astaxanthin is 10 times more effective as an anti-oxidant than other similar molecules, although, there is debate in the scientific community over the role of anti-oxidant molecules in cancer prevention.