Krill Oil
Krill oil contains Omega 3, and astaxanthin. The algae that krill eat produces
the bright red pigment astaxanthin that gives krill and other crustaceans
such as lobster and shrimp their reddish-pink color.
Antioxidants protect our body cells from damage from free radicals, unstable
substances that are thought to contribute to certain chronic diseases.
Unlike many other antioxidants, astaxanthin crosses the blood-brain barrier,
where it could theoretically protect the eye, brain and central nervous
system from free radical damage
The use of krill oil is primarely the same as fish oil, flax oil or other
omega-3 fatty acids.
Here are some specific conditions for which it's used.
Cholesterol
Krill oil is being studied as a natural remedy for high cholesterol. In
one study, 120 people were given krill oil, fish oil or a placebo
Krill oil reduced LDL (commonly referred to as "bad") cholesterol
by 34% and increased HDL ("good") cholesterol by 43.5%
compared to the placebo. In comparison, fish oil reduced LDL cholesterol
by 4.6% and increased HDL cholesterol by 4.2%. Krill also lowered
triglycerides.
Premenstrual syndrome
Preliminary research suggests krill oil may help reduce symptoms of premenstrual
syndrome (PMS), however, more research is needed.
Arthritis
A study in the Journal of the American College of Nutrition examined krill
oil (300 mg daily) compared to a placebo and found that krill oil
was effective at reducing arthritis symptoms and inflammation.
Side Effects
People with allergies to seafood shouldn't use krill oil. People with bleeding
disorders shouldn't use krill oil unless under the supervision of a qualified
health professional.
Side effects of krill oil may include loose stools, diarrhea or indigestion.
Sources::
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.
Deutsch L. Evaluation of the effect of Neptune Krill Oil on chronic inflammation
and arthritic symptoms. J Am Coll Nutr. (2007) 26.1: 39-48.
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