In this article, we'll explore the health benefits of krill oil, its possible side effects, and how to choose the right krill oil dietary supplement to meet your needs. We will also look at the therapeutic applications of this oil. Good reading !

The health benefits of krill oil

Krill oil is a nutrient source rich in omega-3 fatty acids, phospholipids and astaxanthin that has many health benefits.

It is extracted from small crustaceans called krill, which live in the cold waters of Antarctica. Krill are an important food source for many marine species, including whales, seals and penguins.

When to use krill oil?

Reduction in triglyceride levels

Krill oil may help reduce blood triglyceride levels, which is beneficial for cardiovascular health. One study showed that taking krill oil for 12 weeks resulted in a significant decrease in triglyceride levels in patients with hyperlipidemia.

Improved cardiovascular health

The omega-3 fatty acids found in krill oil may help improve cardiovascular health by reducing inflammation and reducing the risk of heart disease. A study showed that taking krill oil for 30 days led to a significant decrease in inflammation in people with arthritis. The beneficial effect is achieved by daily consumption of 250 mg of EPA and DHA .

Reduction of inflammation

Due to the presence of omega-3 fatty acids and astaxanthin, krill oil may help reduce inflammation in the body, which may have beneficial effects on overall health. One study showed that taking krill oil for 7 days resulted in a significant decrease in inflammatory markers in patients with metabolic syndrome.

Improved eye health

Astaxanthin found in krill oil may help improve eye health by reducing the risk of age-related macular degeneration (AMD) and improving visual acuity. One study showed that taking krill oil for 12 weeks resulted in significant improvement in visual acuity in AMD patients.

Reduction of PMS symptoms

Krill oil may help reduce symptoms of premenstrual syndrome (PMS) such as abdominal pain, mood swings, and bloating. A study showed that taking krill oil for 3 months led to a significant decrease in PMS symptoms

Strengthening the immune system

Krill oil contains nutrients that can strengthen the immune system. Omega-3 fatty acids may help regulate the immune response, while astaxanthin may improve immune cell activity. One study showed that taking krill oil for 4 weeks resulted in a significant increase in antibody production in people with a weak immune response.

Improved mental health

The omega-3 fatty acids found in krill oil may help improve mental health by reducing symptoms of depression and anxiety. One study showed that taking krill oil for 12 weeks resulted in a significant decrease in depression symptoms in people with major depression.

Reduction of joint pain

Krill oil may help reduce joint pain in people with arthritis due to the presence of omega-3 fatty acids and astaxanthin which have anti-inflammatory properties. One study showed that taking krill oil for 7 days resulted in a significant decrease in joint pain in patients with rheumatoid arthritis.

Improved skin health

Astaxanthin found in krill oil may help improve skin health by reducing UV damage and improving skin hydration. One study showed that taking krill oil for 6 weeks resulted in significant improvement in skin hydration in postmenopausal women.

How to choose the right krill oil food supplement?

Make sure the product you buy comes from a reliable and sustainable source. Look for companies that use an eco-friendly fishing method and have obtained quality certifications such as MSC (Marine Stewardship Council) or Friend of the Sea certification. It is also important to check if the product has been tested for the presence of contaminants such as heavy metals, PCBs and dioxins.

Omega-3 concentration

One of the main benefits of krill oil is its content of omega-3 fatty acids, EPA and DHA. Make sure you choose a product with a sufficient concentration of omega-3. The recommended amount varies among individuals, but it is generally recommended to consume at least 250 to 500 mg of EPA and DHA per day.

Form and dosage

Krill oil supplements are available in capsule or softgel form. Make sure you choose a shape that suits your preferences and needs. It is also important to follow the dosage instructions provided by the manufacturer to ensure safe and effective use.

Price

Prices for krill oil supplements vary widely depending on quality, omega-3 concentration, and form. However, it is important not to skimp on quality. Make sure you choose a quality product that meets your needs, even if it may cost a little more.

Brand and reputation

Choose a product from a reputable brand recognized for its quality and commitment to sustainability and social responsibility. Online reviews and ratings can also be helpful in assessing the quality and effectiveness of the product.

For years we have been recommending Krill oil from Vector santé, quite simply the best supplement!

Consult the product sheet

What are the contraindications to taking krill oil?

Although krill oil is considered safe and well-tolerated in most people, there are some contraindications to consider. Here are some situations where taking krill oil may not be appropriate:

1. Seafood allergy

As krill oil is derived from shellfish, it may trigger an allergic reaction in people with shellfish allergies. If you have a known shellfish allergy, it is important not to take krill oil or seek medical advice. your doctor before doing so.

2. Use of anticoagulant medications

Krill oil may have blood thinning properties and may increase the risk of bleeding in people already taking blood thinning medications. If you are taking medications such as aspirin, warfarin, or clopidogrel, it is important to consult your doctor before taking krill oil.

3. Impending surgery

Due to its anticoagulant properties, it is recommended to stop taking krill oil at least two weeks before a planned surgical procedure. This can help reduce the risk of excessive bleeding during or after surgery.

4. Pregnancy and breastfeeding

Although krill oil is considered safe for most adults, there is little data on its safety during pregnancy and breastfeeding. Therefore, it is recommended not to take krill oil during these times or consult your doctor before doing so.

Conclusion

In conclusion, krill oil has many benefits for overall health due to its richness in omega-3 fatty acids, phospholipids, and astaxanthin. It may help reduce triglyceride levels, improve cardiovascular health, reduce inflammation, improve eye health, reduce PMS symptoms, strengthen the immune system, improve mental health, reduce joint pain and improve skin health. To reap the benefits of krill oil, it is recommended to take high-quality krill oil supplements under the supervision of a healthcare professional.

Remember that health also depends on eating a healthy and balanced diet, engaging in regular physical activity and reducing stress. Krill oil can be a great supplement to support your overall health, but it should not be considered a panacea.

References

1. Ulven SM, Kirkhus B, Lamglait A, et al. Metabolic effects of krill oil are essentially similar to those of fish oil but at lower doses of EPA and DHA, in healthy volunteers. Lipids. 2011 Jan;46(1):37-46. doi:10.1007/s11745-010-3490-4. Epub 2010 Nov 2. PMID: 21042875.
2. Bunea R, El Farrah K, Deutsch L. Evaluation of the effects of Neptune Krill Oil on the clinical course of hyperlipidemia. Altern Med Rev. 2004;9(4):420-428. PMID: 15656713.
3. Tou JC, Jaczynski J, Chen YC. Krill for human consumption: nutritional value and potential health benefits. Nutr Rev. 2007 Dec;65(12 Pt 1):63-77. doi: 10.1111/j.1753-4887.2007.tb00277.x. PMID: 18240510.
4. Muñoz M, Villarroel P, Navarrete E, et al. Effect of Antarctic krill oil intake on inflammation and stiffness in individuals with symptoms of rheumatoid arthritis: a double-blind, randomized, placebo-controlled trial. Clin Rheumatol. 2013 May;32(5):575-584. doi:10.1007/s10067-013-2154-9. Epub 2013 Feb 20. PMID: 23423668.
5. Ierna M, Kerr A, Scales H, et al. Supplementation with krill oil protects against experimental rheumatoid arthritis. BMC Musculoskelet Disord. 2010 Jun 29;11:136. doi:10.1186/1471-2474-11-136. PMID: 20591191; PMCID: PMC2910656.
6. Kim JH, Chang MJ, Choi HD, et al. Protective effects of krill oil on renal injury in type 2 diabetic OLETF rats. J Nutr Biochem. 2013 Nov;24(11):1965-1972. doi: 10.1016/j.jnutbio.2013.06.008. Epub 2013 Aug 9. PMID: 23932546.
7. Yang Y, Kim B, Park YK, et al. Krill oil inhibits the triglyceride and cholesterol accumulation in 3T3-L1 adipocytes. Lipids Health Dis. 2014 Oct 2;13:178. doi:10.1186/1476-511X-13-178. PMID: 25277338; PMCID: PMC4199069.
8. Tsuduki T