Krill Oil - The Real Facts

By R. Morgan Griffin

Reviewed By David C. Leopold, MD

LifeSource Vitamins

Krill oil comes from krill, tiny shrimp-like creatures that live in very cold ocean waters. Krill oil might have health benefits similar to those of fish oil.

Why do people take krill oil?

Krill oil contains EPA and DHA, the same omega-3 fatty acids in fish oil, although usually in smaller amounts. The effects of krill oil have not been researched as thoroughly as those of fish oil. But a few preliminary studies suggest that krill oil could be superior in some ways. Krill oil might be better absorbed in the body than fish oil.

One study of krill oil found that it was more effective than fish oil in improving cholesterol levels, triglycerides, and blood glucose.

Another study found that krill oil, like omega-3s in general, could improve rheumatoid arthritis and osteoarthritis symptoms such as pain, stiffness, and functional impairment. It also lowered levels of C-reactive protein, a marker for inflammation in the body that's been linked with heart disease.

In addition, krill oil seems to ease PMS symptoms. One study found that women who took it needed fewer painkillers.

Because studies indicate that the fatty acid DHA may benefit a developing child's brain, krill oil is sometimes taken by pregnant women or given to children.

As krill oil becomes more popular, some scientists are concerned about the environmental impact of large-scale krill harvesting. Krill are an important food source for many animals, including whales, seals, and penguins and other birds.

How much krill oil should you take?

Since krill oil is not an established treatment, there's no standard dose. Some studies have used between 1 to 3 grams per day, sometimes with a maintenance dosage of 500 milligrams daily. Talk to your doctor about what might make sense for you.

Can you get krill oil naturally from foods?

The only source of krill oil is krill.

What are the risks of taking krill oil?

- Side effects. Krill oil seems to cause few side effects. Some people might have gas, bloating, or diarrhea.

- Risks. Check with a doctor before using krill oil if you have a bleeding disorder or a seafood allergy. Krill oil can slow blood clotting, and shouldn't be taken for two weeks before surgery.

- Interactions. If you take any medicines regularly, talk to your doctor before you start using krill oil supplements. Like other omega-3 fatty acids, krill oil may cause increased risk of bleeding and should be used with caution, especially if you are taking anti-coagulant medications (blood thinners). Since krill oil interferes with the blood's ability to clot, it could interact with medicines such as blood thinners, anti-platelet drugs, and weight loss medicines. The same risks might apply to taking krill oil while using supplements such as ginkgo biloba, garlic, and ginger.

Although some pregnant women and children take krill oil for brain development and cognitive function, studies have not yet proven it safe for long-term use in sensitive populations. Consult with a doctor before taking krill oil if you are pregnant or planning to give it to a child.

Click here for LifeSource Vitamins Krill Oil

Commonly Asked Question: I take a plant-based omega supplement. Do I need to take Krill Oil?

Answer: If you are taking a Plant-based omega-3 source such as flax, hemp, and chia seeds are high in ALA, but low in EPA and DHA. Most of your health benefits associated with omega-3 fats are linked to animal-based omega-3 fats like EPA and DHA, not plant-based omega-3 fats like ALA. ALA is converted into EPA and DHA in your body, but only at a very low ratio. Even if you eat large amounts of ALA, your body can only convert very small amounts into EPA and DHA, and only when sufficient enzymes are present.

Proudly Made in the USA!

Every LifeSource Vitamins product exceeds all regulatory standards and requirements set forth in the FDA's Code of Federal Regulation. ( 21 CFR, part 111 ) as well as all Good Manufacturing Practices enforced by the FDA. CGMP's provide for systems that assure proper design, monitoring, and control of manufacturing processes and facilities. ( CGMP ).

LifeSource Vitamins: Driven by Faith ~ Powered by God

Have Questions on this or any other product or health issue for you or a loved one? It can be overwhelming we know. Call us, we will walk you through what supplements will help you and which ones you really don’t need. It’s what we do! Toll-Free: 800-567-8122

LifeSource Vitamins – Founded in 1992

100% of our profits are donated to Christian Organizations like these and many others worldwide:

Campus Crusade for Christ - CRU

The Jesus Film Project

World Vision

The Tim Tebow Foundation

Compassion International

Samaritan’s Purse

The Herman and Sharron Show on CTN (Christian Television Network) and many more…

www.LifesourceVitamins.com

E-mail Us: [email protected]

or Call Us: 800.567.8122

We Are Built on Compassion - Driven by Faith & Powered by God!

*Disclaimer: None of the above statements have been evaluated by the FDA. These products are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease. As always, consult your physician before taking any and all supplements. LifeSource Vitamins. Individual results may vary.

Disclaimer: All the information contained throughout this website is based upon the opinions of the founder of LifeSource Vitamins, Bruce Brightman, and the entire team at LifeSource Vitamins whose relentless research and studies have been ongoing since 1992. Other articles and information are based on the opinions of the authors, who retain the copyright as marked in the article. The information on this site is not intended to replace your health care professional, but to enhance your relationship with them. Doing your own studying and research and taking your health care into your own hands is always best, especially in partnership with your health care professional.

If you are pregnant, nursing, taking medications, or have any medical conditions, always consult your health care professional before taking supplements based on the information on this site.

LifeSource Vitamins: from the nutrients we choose, to the way we run our business, we answer to God in all we do!