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Krill Oil
Antarctic krill are one of the most abundant animal species on Earth. They form the staple diet of many animals including seals, whales, fish, squid, penguins and other seabirds.
What it is
Krill oil is a nutrient-dense substance extracted from a tiny, bottom-of-the-food-chain crustacean that are collected far from pollution in the pristine seas surrounding Antarctica. So you don’t have to worry about unsafe accumulations of mercury, PCBs, heavy metals or other toxins
Oil that is made from Krill contains similar to fish oil large amounts of the omega three fatty acids eicosapentanoic acid (EPA) and docosahexanoic acid (DHA).
In contrast to fish oil, that contains these fatty acids mostly in the triglyceride form, Krill oil contains mostly phospholipids, which, in addition to the fatty acid, also contain phosphatidylcholine.
Phospholipids have a higher bioavailability than triglycerides, so that less DHA and EPA from Krill oil needs to be consumed to get the same amount of DHA and EPA into the blood stream compared to fish oil.
However, fish oil contains more DHA per mg oil, which might balance out this bioavailability effect.
Phospholipids, and in particular those containing phosphatidylcholine are important building blocks of our cell membranes and are essential for proper functioning of nerves and muscles.
Krill oil is high in naturally occurring antioxidants, such as Vitamin A, and E and astaxanthin.
Astaxanthin is an orange-red pigment in the carotenoid family, which also includes beta carotene. Made by certain algae and other microorganisms, it’s thought to help protect against ultraviolet rays from the sun and is thought to be a powerful antioxidant.
What it does
The high content of the omega-3 fatty acids DHA and EPA in Krill oil in the easily absorbable phospholipid form make it a great dietary supplement for people who are looking for ways to reduce their blood levels of low density lipoprotein (LDL) or also known as “bad cholesterol” and triglycerides while at the same time increasing the blood levels of high density lipoprotein (HDL) -the “good cholesterol”.
The omega 3 fatty acids DHA and EPA are also very important for the development and functioning of the brain, the eyes, and muscles.
An additional advantage of Krill oil is it’s high content of phosphatidylcholine, which is a building block of our cell membranes and therefore vitally necessary for the functioning of brain, muscles, blood vessels, and inner organs.
Further, Krill oil also boasts superb antioxidant protection, a full complement of necessary antioxidants not seen in fish or cod liver oil.
Chronic inflammation is now believed to be a contributing factor in many cancers and cardiovascular disease. The fact that Krill Oil appears to reduce inflammatory markers and symptoms may provide a clue to part of its cardioprotective effect.
A study in 2004 produced perhaps the strongest piece of evidence that supports the krill/heart health link. In a group of 120 volunteers a stating dosage of 500 mg daily reduced blood sugar levels, LDL, total cholesterol and triglycerides, and raised the beneficial HDL cholesterol in the participants.
Common Use:
- Reducing lipid peroxidation and maintaining healthy cholesterol levels
- Assisting in maintenance of healthy LDL/HDL cholesterol ration and cardiovascular health
- Reducing inflammation and decreasing joint discomfort
- Reducing blood sugar levels and managing diabetes
- Protection for cell membranes
- Alleviating symptoms of PMS
- Fighting the signs of ageing
- Support for concentration, memory and learning
- Healthy brain and nervous system function and development
- Supporting immune health
- Supporting healthy liver function
- Optimal skin health
- Eye health
- Increasing your overall energy and vitality and general well-being
Forms:
- capsules
- soft gel capsules
- oil
Dosage:
As yet, there is no clear dosage schedule for krill oil that has been demonstrated in the existing clinical research. However, most producers generally are recommending 1,000 milligrams a day. This is based, in part, on clinical trials that showed benefits at this dose.
Caution:
Stop using Krill oil at least 2 weeks before a scheduled surgery as it may increase bleeding time.
Krill oil might slow blood clotting. Take under supervision of health care professional when taking anticoagulant / anti-platelet drugs.
Not suitable for patients with shellfish or seafood allergies.
Why Choose Sustainable Krill?
Krill oil contains a large portion of omega-3 fatty acids bound to phospholipids. Research shows krill oil produces similar effects to fish oil but with only 63% of the EPA / DHA content of ish oil, suggesting greater absorption.
Antarctic krill are small, red-coloured crustaceans that float in huge masses in the Antarctic waters, feeding on microscopic algae.
They are an essential part of the ecosystem and a food source for whales, seals and penguins, therefore it is important that krill oil is obtained from an environmentally sustainable source.
Read on to see why sustainable Krill Oil benefits not only your health but also reduces its environmental impact.
