Krill oil is similar to fish oil, but instead of oil from fish, this oil comes from a small crustacean usually sourced from the Antarctic. Krill translates to whale food and provides a source of omega fats similar to those provided in popular fish oil supplements. Both of these oils provide a source of docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) and eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA), which are omega-3 fats that are only found in marine sources.
Krill oil has recently gained traction and may even be more effective than fish oil supplements. Research has proven that krill oil may help fight inflammation, improve heart health, promote a healthy lipid panel, reduce cholesterol levels, and decrease swelling in the body. So let’s dive right in. We’ll take a look at the benefits, different types, and our choices for the best krill oil supplements.
Different Types Of Krill Oil Supplements
Krill oil is a great source of omega-3 fats, and supplements should always contain a source of DHA and EPA in their formula. When looking for what supplement to choose, always make sure it has these two forms of omega-3 fats. Most krill oil supplements will contain a source of phospholipids in addition to around 1000mg to 2000mg of krill oil sourced from the Antarctic.
Krill Oil Supplement Benefits
Krill oil has recently become well known throughout the supplement market. It has a wide range of benefits due to its omega-3 content. The following are benefits of krill oil supplements in the body:
- Reduces risk of heart diseases
- Lowers cholesterol
- Fights inflammation
- Helps treat joint pain
- Helps treat arthritis
- Promotes a healthy lipid panel
- Prevents blood platelet clotting
- May help treat dry eyes
- Helps alleviate PMS symptoms
Although many of these benefits are still being investigated, there is a lot of research that supports the efficacy of how these supplements behave in our bodies.
Should I Take Krill Oil Supplements?
Many individuals have started to take krill oil as some research has suggested that it might be more absorbable and more effective than fish oil in the body. However, krill oil is still under-researched, so you should use caution when taking it, and you should only take it on a short-term basis and no longer than 3 months.
Some people supplement with krill oil to improve cholesterol and lipid levels within the body and also help to boost cognition and brain health. Although krill oil and other fish oils are pretty safe, there are some side effects, including abdominal pain, fishy odors/burps, bloating, gas, nausea, and heartburn. Krill oil may be used to support healthy skin health, but it also may contribute to more oil on the skin and, thus, potentially more breakouts.
The following populations should avoid the use of krill oil or consult a doctor before taking:
- Pregnant women
- Individuals with blood disorders
- People suffering from diabetes
- People suffering from obesity
- Individuals with a seafood allergy
- Individuals undergoing surgery (it should not be consumed for at least 2 weeks prior to surgery)
Do Krill Oil Supplements Really Work?
Krill oil supplements are still new to the market and are currently being researched more. However, some research suggests that krill oil is the more bioavailable and thus effective form of fish oil. The current research shows that krill oil is effective at reducing cholesterol levels and promoting heart health. However, just like fish oil, if taken in large quantities, it can cause bleeding, which is an issue if you are on medications that slow blood clotting in the body (aspirin, warfarin, etc.).
It’s also too soon to tell if there are any long-term effects of krill oil as it is such a new supplement. However, it seems like krill oil is very similar in nature and bodily effect to fish oil and thus is deemed pretty effective and safe to use short-term.
Best Krill Oil Supplements
KrillMD
Our number one pick for krill oil supplements is KrillMD. This krill oil supplement is produced by well-known supplement company, 1MD. It contains 1600mg of pure krill oil as well as Omega-3s, Astaxanthin, and Phospholipids. KrillMD is designed to promote better brain, eye, liver, bone, and joint health as well as help maintain healthy cholesterol levels and reduce triglycerides.
GET UP TO 40% OFF KRILLMDBulletproof Omega Krill Complex
One of our top picks for krill oil supplements is Bulletproof Omega Krill Complex. This supplement includes an omega-3 blend of Antarctic krill, Norwegian herring roe, and Atlantic and Pacific fish oils. Its benefits include supporting heart health, brain health, and healthy joints.
GET THE BEST PRICE ON BULLETPROOF OMEGA KRILL COMPLEXViva Naturals Krill Oil
Viva Naturals Krill Oil contains both a DHA and EPA source, phospholipids, and 1250 mg of krill oil. Users say that it does not give any fishy odors or burps, both common side effects of krill oil use.
GET THE BEST PRICE ON VIVA NATURALS KRILL OILCarlyle Antarctic Krill Oil
Carlyle Antarctic Krill Oil is gluten-free and soy-free and contains no additives. It provides 2000 mg of krill oil sourced from the Antarctic, containing a source of DHA, EPA, and phospholipids. It also comes very highly rated.
GET THE BEST PRICE ON CARLYLE ANTARCTIC KRILL OILSports Research Antarctic Krill Oil
Sports Research Antarctic Krill Oil contains EHA, DPA, and a source of phospholipids in addition to 1000 mg of krill oil. It comes in only one capsule, which is fewer capsules used when compared to other krill oil supplements. It is sustainably sourced from the Antarctic and comes very highly rated.
GET THE BEST PRICE ON SPORTS RESEARCH ANTARCTIC KRILL OILKrill Oil Supplement Alternatives
Krill oil and fish oils are popular because they contain omega-3 fats, which provide you with the many health benefits these oils boast. There are many alternatives to fish oils that you can get through dietary sources as they boast high omega-3 content. The following are great omega-3 dietary sources:
- Fish in whole food form (salmon, cod, mackerel, herring, oysters)
- Mung beans
- Flaxseeds
- Linseed oil supplements
- Chia seeds
- Walnuts
Additionally, there are other omega-3 supplements out there. Many are dedicated to one specific purpose or goal, though. For example, if you’re looking to relieve joint pain, Omega XL could be a good supplement alternative.
Krill Oil Supplements And Your Omegas
Krill oil can provide a great omega-3 source into your diet if need be. Fish oils, such as krill oil, can help prevent heart disease, promote a healthy lipid panel, lower cholesterol, and help treat arthritis and joint pain. However, fish oils have side effects and shouldn’t be taken for a duration exceeding 3 months.
If you’re looking to reap some of the krill oil health benefits, taking a krill oil supplement can be beneficial. However, dietary sources of omega-3 fats like salmon, cod, walnuts, and mung beans can also be great staples to have in your diet.
