Healthy oils. Good fat. Years ago, it was oxymorons. Now we know that the natural compounds of certain oils and fats – such as omega -3 fatty acids and monounsaturated fats – have several health benefits. You may have heard a little buzz on Krill oil or says it is greater than fish oil. Here’s what you need to know.
What is Krill oil?
Similar to fish oil, which is derived from fish, krill oil is extracted from Krill, a crustacean in the shape of shrimp. The Krill follows a marine plant diet which contains omega-3 fatty acids, such as algae, they therefore become an omega-3 source themselves.
“Omega-3 fatty acids can be presented in a variety of forms, but generally, we know the EPA the most [eicosapentaenoic acid] and DHA [docosahexaenoic acid]”Said Kasey HutchinsonRDN, a recorded dietitian based in Montana. “Research shows that krill oil is slightly higher in omega-3 fatty acids [compared to fish oil]. “”
How many omega-3 do you need per day?
The National Institutes of Health (NIH) claims that the adequate daily contribution for omega-3 fatty acids is 1.6 g per day for men and 1.1 g per day for women.
What is the best: Krill oil or fish oil?
Omega-3 content
Studies have indicated that the complement of your diet with omega-3 can promote cardiovascular health,, joint healthAnd skin health. However, it is too early to say definitively if krill oil is better than fish oil to provide omega-3.
Some studies have found This krill oil could increase the level of omega-3 in the blood better than fish oil. Other studies found no difference between krill oil and fish oil in this regard.
So what are the main differences between the two?
EPA and DHA in Krill oil are found in phospholipids, which are structurally different from omega-3 fatty acids in fish oil that take the form of triglycerides or ethyl esters. (All three are fatty substances.) Some studies suggest that phospholipids are superior in the delivery of EPA and DHA. But the data is far from conclusive, Researchers say.
Antioxidants
Krill oil contains astaxanthine, an antioxidant type compound generally absent in fish oil. This carotenoid (a type of phytonutrient) is what gives salmon its red color, which is why krill oil capsules are a deep red while the fish oil capsules are more golden.
Nutritionists advise that we eat a lot of fruits and vegetables to obtain the advantages of carotenoids (including ocular health). But no study shows that Krill oil directly offers these advantages.
Cost
Krill oil is also more expensive than fish oil, partly due to how it is made. “Krill oil is more durable for the environment than most fish oils,” says Hutchinson. “This is an important consideration for our day and our current age when our sea temperatures increase, and the oceans are over-harmful and polluted.”
What are the potential side effects of taking Krill oil supplements?
- As with fish oil, you might feel rots with fish taste while taking krill oil. Some formulations claim to eliminate this.
- Some people can also live gastrointestinalLike acid reflux or diarrhea, when taking fish oil due to its high fat content.
- Krill oil can cause reactions in people allergic to crustaceans or seafood.
As always, talk to your doctor before starting any new supplement.
