Friday, August 9, 2013

Krill Oil benefits and side effects


Our body needs essential fatty acids like omega 3 in order to stay healthy. But unfortunately, the body is not able to produce them on its own. So, it is very important that we include foods rich in these essential fats in our diets or consume them in supplements. Krill oil has become increasingly popular in all parts of the world as one of the best sources of omega-3 fatty acids. People use it for the same reasons they use fish oil or other omega-3 fatty acids. If you are not aware of Krill oil benefits, then go through the following article to know about Krill oil and its benefits & side effects.

Krill Oil benefits and side effects

Krill oil is derived from small prawns and shrimps like marine creature named krill. The main food of whales, Krill is generally found in Antarctic and North Pacific oceans. Just like fish oil, krill oil has omega-3 fatty acids EPA (eicosapentaenoic acid) and DHA (docosahexaenoic acid) in high amount but in a different molecular structure.



Fish oil contains these fatty acids in the triglyceride form while krill oil contains them in a double chain phospholipid form. The fat structure in our body is also in the phospholipid form, so the oil gets absorbed in the body easily and in a better way. Krill oil also contains phosphatidylcholine, Vitamin A, Vitamin D, Vitamin E, canthaxanthin and astaxanthin, which are absent in fish oil.

You will not get the fishy burping and aftertaste like fish oil, thanks to the rapid absorption and the high anti-oxidant content. Krill oil is available in capsule form at health food stores and online. It is more expensive, but has a longer shelf life compared to fish oil.

Krill Oil Health Benefits:

1. Absorb Quickly by the body

This is the main reason which makes krill oil better than fish oil. As it absorbs quickly by the body, you will get the krill oil benefits much quicker. Thus, you need to take less krill oil pills to achieve the desired health benefits.

2. Protect Skin against UV Damage

The presence of the strongest antioxidant, astaxanthin in krill oil protects the skin against UV light and UV-induced damage. Astaxanthin also prevents aging. According to a research, krill oil reduced 60% wrinkles in the women who took part in a research.

3. Reduce Cholesterol

Omega-3 fatty acids in the oil significantly reduce LDL-cholesterol & triglycerides in the body, and thereby prevent heart disease. Krill oil even increases healthy cholesterol levels and balances blood glucose levels. A study found that consuming krill oil pills can increase the good cholesterol by 14% and decrease triglycerides by 13%.

4. Relieve Arthritis

Omega-3 fatty acids contain anti-inflammatory properties that can provide relief from the pain and inflammation related to some types of arthritis. As per a study published in the American Journal of Nutrition, krill oil decreased the pain and stiffness in arthritis sufferers by almost 30% and 20% respectively.

5. Premenstrual Syndrome (PMS)

Omega-3 fatty acids in oil provide relief from PMS symptoms such as pain and cramps as well as emotional symptoms. PMS symptoms are not harmful, but they can make some women bedridden. A study has revealed that women who consumed krill oil required fewer painkillers.

6. Improve Brain Function

Low levels of EPA and DHA have been linked with decreased cognitive and neurological function in adults and children. Krill oil can significantly improve the cognitive function, particularly attention, concentration and memory. A study has shown that krill oil improved mental concentration and focus by 50% in just 3 months in patients diagnosed with attention difficulties.

7. Improve Vision

Omega 3 fatty acids found in oil support vision development and decrease the risk of Age-related Macular Degeneration (AMD). They also protect eyes from dry eye syndrome, cataracts, retinopathy and glaucoma. Regular consumption of oil protects eyes against retinal damage from UV light.

Side Effects of Krill Oil:

There are only a few side effects of Krill oil. But, you should always consult your doctor before using Krill oil supplements. This will help you to avoid serious health complications.

1. Surgery

The biggest side effect of krill oil is its blood thinning properties. The oil can enhance the risk of bleeding during and after surgery, so don’t take krill oil supplements at least 2 weeks before a scheduled surgery. Also, avoid taking krill oil supplements with blood thinning drugs such as Warfarin (Coumadin) and blood thinning herb supplements like Ginkgo Biloba and garlic.

2. Seafood allergy

People with seafood allergy may also be allergic to krill oil supplements. Hence, people who are allergic to shrimp and other shellfish should avoid krill oil or consume it under the supervision of a medical practitioner only.

3. Gastrointestinal Disturbances

Some people might experience gastrointestinal disturbances like nausea, bloating, indigestion and diarrhea, in response to the consumption of krill oil supplements. As a result, you should begin taking krill oil supplements with a low dose.

4. Pregnancy and breast-feeding

More studies are needed to prove krill oil benefits for pregnant and breast-feeding women. So, pregnant and breast-feeding women should avoid the use of krill oil.

Video of benefits of Krill Oil from youtube:

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