What is Krill Oil?

Most of us are familiar with krill. We know they are the main food for many species of whales particularly baleen whales and resemble shrimp. They are no larger than 2 ½ inches and are considered to be crustaceans. Their place in the food chain is on the bottom rung and fish, squid, penguins and seals also feast upon the tiny creatures. Krill mainly feed on phytoplankton.

The coasts of Japan, Canada, the northern portion of the Pacific and the Southern Ocean are where the commercial fishing of the tiny sea creatures occurs. They are used for feeding aquarium fish, bait for sport fishing or they may be consumed by humans. Krill is called okiami in Japan when it is used for human consumption.

The Oil of Krill

The naturally occurring oil in krill is also used as a dietary supplement. You can find it in many health food stores as well as online. It is typically sold in the form of capsules. The popularity of krill oil lies in the fact that it has omega-3 fatty acids as well as the antioxidant named astaxanthin. The reddish pink hue of krill along with shrimp and lobster is caused by the algae that the krill consumes and is produced from the red pigment of the astaxanthin.

Why is Krill Oil Beneficial?

It is beneficial because our bodies need antioxidants in order to protect it from cell damage that is caused by free radicals. Free radicals are substances that are considered unstable and are thought to contribute to the development of some chronic diseases. Astaxanthin is unique because unlike other antioxidants it can cross the barrier of the blood-brain where it is possible to protect the central nervous system, the brain as well as the eyes from damage caused by free radicals.

The Research Findings on Krill Oil

Researchers are studying krill oil as a potential remedy for those with high cholesterol. One study showed that krill oil can reduce the bad cholesterol or LDL by more than 30%. It showed an increase in the good cholesterol or HDL of more than 40%. Krill oil is also believed to lower triglycerides as well.

Other studies indicate that using krill oil will reduce some of the symptoms associated with PMS or premenstrual syndrome. Before manufacturers are able to make this claim, more research in this area will be needed. It is also thought that the use of krill oil can reduce the inflammation and symptoms of arthritis when taken at a dosage of 300 mg. on a daily basis.

Are There Any Side Effects?

Though krill oil is considered to be a natural remedy those that are allergic to seafood and specifically to shell fish should not take krill oil. If you are someone that suffers with a blood disorder such as hemophilia you shouldn’t take it without the supervision of your healthcare provider.

Other side effects can include indigestion, diarrhea or loose bowel movements. Those that are on prescription medication should also speak with their healthcare professional before starting a regiment of krill oil. Specific drug interactions with krill oil have been found with anticoagulants such as Coumadin and aspirin, NSAIDS such as Aleve, Advil or naproxen. If you are taking any prescribed medication, always check with your physician before beginning a daily dose of krill oil.

You should also use caution when taking drill oil along with supplements or herbs that may increase the chance of bleeding such as garlic and ginkgo biloba.