One of the more interesting things to know about omega-3’s, besides the fact they are a popular supplement among those in the nutritional know-how, is that not all omega-3’s are the same. They have their differences. That brings us to krill oil, which is sourced from crustaceans and is the latest featured natural supplement in our continuing series of “unsung” supplements.
Krill Oil Provides Healthy Levels of EPA and DHA
Like omega-3 fish oils in general, krill oil is an abundant provider of EPA (eicosapentaenoic acid) and DHA (docosahexaenoic acid). These are substances identified as long-chain omega-3 fatty acids capable of imparting cardiovascular and anti-inflammatory health benefits, among other purported health aids. One characteristic that sets kill oil apart from other types of fish oil is that the fatty acids contained in krill are structurally different than those in other fish oils, a factor that is believed to affect how your body puts them to use.
Possible Advantages of Krill Oil over Fish Oils
Research has shown that your body is apparently able to not only absorb and utilize fatty acids more efficiently than it can fish oils, but krill’s EPA and DHA compounds also carry a lower risk of producing unwanted digestive side effects.
Among other potential advantages linked to krill oil vs. fish oil is krill’s supply of an antioxidant known as astaxanthin. It works to help guard your body against oxidative stress sourced from cell-damaging molecules known as free radicals.
Astaxanthin has been researched to be not only 6,000 times stronger than vitamin C, but also 770 times more active than coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10) and 100 times more powerful than vitamin E. Also, astaxanthin acts as a natural preservative able to help regulate krill oil’s omega-3 fatty acid content. This natural carotenoid – extracted from algae – is also known in its role as a free radical scavenger, able to support eye health as well as the central nervous system
6 Health Benefits Attributed to Krill Oil
Following is a rundown of six health benefits associated with krill oil. In no particular order:
Bolster brain function and elevate mood. Our brains rely heavily on omega-3 fatty acids, DHA in particular bound to phospholipids, known to bolster cognitive health and good emotional health (i.e. mood stability).
Reduce inflammation. Inflammation at healthy levels act as your body’s reaction to fend off harmful invaders such as viruses and toxins. Too much inflammation out of control, though, can lead to serious diseases such as heart issues and metabolic problems. Krill oil’s protective substances, such as astaxanthin, can help guard your body against not only excess inflammation but also oxidative damage.
Improve gut health. Another of krill oil’s bioactive components are phospholipids. These put krill in position to regulate healthy microbial interactions and stimulate epithelial healing in an infected colitis. This enhances overall gut health, which in turn plays an instrumental role in influencing whole-body health.
Support heart health. Among krill oil’s most significant health aids, thanks to its abundant presence of omega-3 fatty acids, is its potential to tamp down cholesterol buildup in your arteries and stymie hardening and atherosclerosis. This can help reduce elevated blood pressure levels to help keep your cardiovascular system operating efficiently.
Alleviate joint pain. Think mainly arthritis and the problems it can cause, not only the pain but the stiffness and swelling as well. Krill oil’s anti-inflammatory properties can work to reduced such annoying, at times debilitating, physical symptoms.
Reduce PMS symptoms. Some research has shown krill oil to be more effective than fish oil in general when it comes to alleviating PMS symptoms. Chalk this up to krill’ highly bioavailable forms of antioxidants (i.e. astaxanthin) and essential fatty acids that together can promote hormonal stability and tamp down inflammatory reactions.
Until now, krill oil might not have been high on your list of preferred supplements, but thanks to its potent health-inducing compounds, it is worth at least a first look if you need help addressing certain health deficiencies needing TLC. As with any natural remedy or supplement, always be sure to discuss its use with your personal physician or other licensed healthcare provider.