Krill Oil Research
July 3, 2009 Written by JP
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When selecting nutritional supplements we all strive to use the most effective products available. But what should we base that determination on? One option is to ask others about their personal experiences. This is commonly referred to as anecdotal evidence. Another source of data can be found in the scientific literature. Here we’re trusting that researchers are performing well designed and impartial research in a more controlled manner. Since these types of studies typically involve larger groups of people, the results may apply to broad segments of the population. But there’s another very prevalent manner of learning about dietary supplements and that is information provided by the manufacturers themselves. My contention is that we ought to examine all three sources of input. Ask questions of your colleagues, family and friends. Read the product literature provided by nutraceutical companies and pose any inquires that you might have. Finally, investigate whether modern science has produced any evidence to back up the other two sources. I’ll apply this model to examine an area of debate that’s currently active in the natural health community: Is krill oil superior to fish oil?
Krill oil is a supplemental source of powerful antioxidants, omega-3 fatty acids and phosholipids derived from tiny crustaceans harvested largely in the Southern Ocean waters of the Antarctic. Krill oil proponents claim that it is essentially a superior form of omega-3s. Krill contain a rather unique reddish antioxidant called astaxanthin, and they’re also rich in phospholipids, which help emulsify fatty acids and enhance their absorption and retention.
A new study presented in the Journal of Nutrition appears to support this point of view. Research conducted in a group of overweight rats found that krill oil provoked a 42% decrease in fat (triglyceride) build-up in the hearts of the test rats. Fish oil only lead to a marginal decline in cardio-lipids of 2%. When the authors of the study examined the livers of these animals, they discovered a 60% reduction in fat in their livers, as opposed to 38% in the livers of rats fed fish oil. The normalization of fat content in the heart and liver indicate potential benefits to overall heart function and an improvement in insulin sensitivity, which can be impaired in cases of fatty liver disease. In addition, the krill oil test subjects exhibited positive changes associated with a reduced “inflammatory response”. (1,2)
A study from 2008 demonstrated anti-cancer and heart benefits in relation to krill oil (KO) supplementation. In that trial, rats who were fed KO showed weight loss and a drop in LDL “bad” cholesterol, total cholesterol and triglyceride levels. The scientists also tested krill oil in an in-vitro model of colon cancer. The scientists concluded that, “Treatment of colon cancer cells with KO also resulted in time-dependent inhibition of cell growth”. (3)
Krill oil has also been evaluated in other health conditions as well. The results of those studies have all been positive and, in a roundabout way, can be applied to what we currently know about heart disease.
- In 2007, a paper was published in the Journal of the American College of Nutrition. 90 participants with heart disease and/or arthritis (osteo or rheumatoid) with elevated CRP (C-reactive protein) levels were provided with KO or a placebo for a 30 day period. CRP is a measure of inflammation in the body. By the 7th day of treatment with KO (300 mg daily), there was a 19% drop in CRP levels. The placebo group exhibited a 16% increase in CRP. By the 30th day of treatment, there was a 31% reduction in CRP in the krill oil group and a 32% rise in CRP in the placebo group. In the arthritic patients, there were significant improvements in pain and stiffness scores, and a trend towards “reduced functional impairment”. (4)
- A 2003 study on 70 women with PMS and dysmenorrhea (painful menstruation) found that those taking KO for a total of 90 days demonstrated reduced discomfort, pain and emotional symptoms relating to PMS. This experiment compared equal dosages of KO vs. fish oil - 2 grams daily for the first 30 days and then 2 grams daily for 8 days prior to menstruation and during the first 2 days of the menstrual cycle. (5)
Chronic inflammation is now believed to be a contributing factor in many cancers and cardiovascular disease. The fact that KO appears to reduce inflammatory markers and symptoms may provide a clue to part of its cardioprotective effect. A human trial from 2004 is perhaps the strongest piece of evidence that supports the krill/heart health link. That study produced a profoundly positive shift in cardiovascular risk factors in a group of 120 volunteers. A starting KO dosage of 500 mg daily reduced blood sugar levels, LDL, total cholesterol and triglycerides, and raised the beneficial HDL cholesterol in the participants. The men and women who were given fish oil didn’t fare nearly as well. (6)
There are several other important factors to consider when comparing fish oil and krill oil. Preliminary studies going back to the mid 90s demonstrate that krill oil appears to be safe. (7) However, some manufacturers and health authorities caution that those with severe shellfish allergies should discuss krill oil with their physicians prior to usage. It’s also important to note that fish oil has been studied extensively over the past several decades. Literally thousands of research papers have been published on the health effects of omega-3 fatty acids found in fish. Fewer than 10 studies on krill oil have been presented in peer reviewed medical journals.
When I looked over all of the reliable data I could find about krill oil, I came to the following conclusion. Krill oil seems to be an extremely promising antioxidant/omega-3 supplement. Substantial evidence suggests that the astaxanthin content of krill largely contributes to its net effect. (8,9,10) Astaxanthin is the same carotenoid that gives wild salmon its pink hue. But there may also be something to the phospholipid content of this crustacean. That’s the only explanation I’ve found as to why a lower dosage of KO could produce equal or greater effects than higher dosages of fish oil.
Be forewarned: Krill oil can be quite expensive. The real question is how much you’ll need to take to derive the same benefits as I’ve reported here. If you need a lower dosage, such as 500 mg, then it can be relatively affordable. But some users may require larger quantities (2-3 grams a day). The best deal I’ve found online costs roughly $20 for 90 (500mg) softgels. I think at that price, it’s certainly worth a shot for anyone who might benefit from it. I also think that KO may be an attractive alternative, because krill softgels are typically smaller in size and have a milder aroma. The issue of smell and taste can be further helped by freezing the KO and swallowing the frozen capsules. This is a good technique for taking any softgels with a strong after-taste.
Be well!
JP
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Tags: Arthritis, Fish Oil, Heart
Posted in Nutritional Supplements
July 4th, 2009 at 8:46 pm
Great article, JP. I started taking 2 grams of KO after you posted of your dad’s success with the supplement. Have you read of the distributor, J Edwards, offering large amounts (thousands of gelcaps) at a substantial savings. I wish we could find a buyers’ coop through which we could benefit from such savings.
http://www.bulknaturaloils.com/fishoil/krilloil.html
July 4th, 2009 at 8:56 pm
Apparently their price is $1,060.00 for 10,000 gelcaps(500mg). That would be about 10¢ per gelcap.
http://www.bulknaturaloilsstore.com/superbakrilloilsoftgels.aspx
July 4th, 2009 at 9:07 pm
On second thought, NSI’s deal of $40/300 sgs sounds pretty good. http://www.gonsi.com/products/product-detail.cfm/sku-835003005444
July 4th, 2009 at 9:40 pm
Thanks, Iggy!
The Superba krill oil (from your first link) is the variety that was used in the most recent study I cited. The bulk price for it is fantastic - at $.10 per softgel.
The concern I have about the NSI product is that they don’t state that it contains phospholipids. Neptune Krill Oil and Superba (the two clinically tested krill oils) clearly state that they’re rich source of phospholipids. In addition, the NSI product appears to be substantially lower in DHA and EPA than these other two sources. In short, I’m just not sure if the NSI would be as effective.
Be well!
JP
July 10th, 2009 at 12:36 am
thanks for posting.
i going to give krill oil a try. i have always used fish oil and i thought it was the best.
July 21st, 2009 at 8:54 am
Hi there , good article but I cant find the 90 softgels for $20.00 . Can you let us know where you got them ?
July 21st, 2009 at 11:12 am
Cindy,
Here’s one online source for this kind of deal. There may be others out there.
http://www.swansonvitamins.com/SWE033/ItemDetail?n=4294967191
Be well!
JP
July 24th, 2009 at 5:10 am
Good if it is a cure or even a treatment and remedy for arthritis…many are simply disgusted finding a cure for this pain.
October 29th, 2009 at 8:35 am
Wow what a fantastically thorough article…I love soaking up information like this! Ive been using krill oils for the past 6 months and I can honestly say Ive never felt as good as I do after having used it!
October 29th, 2009 at 11:32 am
Thanks, Geoff. I’m happy to hear of your success.
Be well!
JP
November 10th, 2009 at 8:09 pm
I think the author has really captured the current state of knowledge on Krill Oil. I actually tried to create a neighborhood group to buy the wholesale krill oil but didn’t find the interest. And yet there is no question that there are many people who would be interested if we could just connect. In fact, I would even be willing to run it for a group of people that thought they would consistently want to participate. In the meantime I have contacted NSI and asked them about the phospholipids and their product. If I get a decent answer, I’ll post it.
Cheers.
November 10th, 2009 at 9:11 pm
Thanks, Michael.
I’d love to hear what NSI has to say about the phospholipid content of their product. Please let us know.
Be well!
JP
December 17th, 2009 at 10:55 pm
Great writeup. Been taking fish oil for awhile and am considering a change. I just bought my first bottle of MegaRed after seeing it on the shelves forever and after hearing dozens of weekend radio programs spamming my eardrums with their krill oil claims. First dose down (with a side of Co-Q10)..
December 18th, 2009 at 12:06 am
Thanks, Chris!
I hope you find good results with the krill oil.
Be well!
JP
January 6th, 2010 at 8:08 pm
Nature’s Way Krill Oil is the one that i prefer.
I buy Krill oil from
http://www.mynaturalmarket.com/nature-s-way-krill-oil-500-mg-60-softgel-capsules.html
January 21st, 2010 at 9:34 pm
jp,
I noticed on my new MegaRed bottle it says NKO instead of Superba krill oil. Does anyone know when/why this changed and what it means for effectiveness etc?
January 21st, 2010 at 9:45 pm
Kriller,
I’m not sure why Schiff made the decision. But, to the best of my knowledge, both the NKO and Superba are excellent krill oil sources. I wouldn’t hesitate using either one.
If you contact Schiff and get an answer, please let us know what they say. If they give you the runaround, please let me know that too and I’ll contact them myself.
Be well!
JP
January 22nd, 2010 at 3:48 pm
This is for general nutrition and wellness information only. This information is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment.
Nigel : Welcome,this is Nigel. How may I help you?
Kriller : I noticed on my new MegaRed bottle it says NKO instead of Superba krill oil. Do you know when/why this changed and what it means for effectiveness etc?
Nigel : We actually switched from NKO to Superba. The effectiveness is the same. It just changed who we get the krill oil from.
Kriller : So.. it’s possible that this “new” bottle I just bought was from “old” stash?
Kriller : Because my bottle that I had before this said Superba
Nigel : We just switched the companies in the last couple of months. It is an older bottle. The new product is made by Superba
January 22nd, 2010 at 8:48 pm
Thanks for posting your exchange, Kriller!
Here’s their official public comment on the matter:
http://www.npicenter.com/anm/templates/newsATemp.aspx?articleid=24900&zoneid=11
Be well!
JP
January 23rd, 2010 at 1:24 am
A good friend of mine had been taking MegaRed NKO Krill Oil for quite awhile. She is not getting the same mental sharpness and feeling of well being from the MegaRed Superba Krill Oil formula
January 23rd, 2010 at 3:36 am
Thanks for letting us know that, DW.
It would be interesting to hear from anyone else who’s noticed similar differences between the two sources of krill oil.
I’ve used NKO (Now Foods brand mostly) and Avantis krill oil (Jarrow Formulas) without any detectable difference between the two.
I haven’t tried Schiff’s Superba krill oil yet.
Be well!
JP
February 2nd, 2010 at 10:02 pm
re DW’s comment. the strange thing is my experience has been the complete opposite. i felt more results in regards to skin softness from superba than the nko. i wonder how much is placebo effect and what the real difference is between the two brands.
February 2nd, 2010 at 10:34 pm
JP, care to share your daily dosage and the reasons you take it? Thanks!
February 2nd, 2010 at 10:45 pm
Marcella,
Thank you for sharing your experience comparing the two krill oil sources. It’s helpful to know.
As best as I can tell, NKO and Superba are very similar/nearly identical from a nutritional standpoint - re: astaxanthin, DHA, EPA and total Omega-3 content. But that’s not to say that there isn’t some other difference that your body may have picked up on.
Be well!
JP
February 2nd, 2010 at 10:48 pm
Just Wondering,
I take 500 mg with breakfast and 500 mg with dinner.
I’m mostly using it support cardiovascular health and to keep any systemic inflammation at a very low level.
Be well!
JP
February 4th, 2010 at 12:59 am
I’ve spent a LOT of time researching krill oil. One thing people should be aware of: The level of astaxanthin naturally occurring in krill oil is rather low (about 50 micrograms per gram of Krill oil). Neptune and now Enzymotic both produce extremely high quality oil using a so-called “cold extraction” process which (it is claimed) preserves the full bioactivity of the compounds. Both companies also supplement the naturally-occurring astaxanthin with esterified astaxanthin (that’s both good for people and it also protects the krill oil against oxidation). The supplemented level is 1.5 mg/gram of oil.
Aker BioMarine, which produces Superba krill oil now used in Mega Red and several other brands, doesn’t supplement the astaxanthin level. I’m not sure what the implication of that is with respect to product stability. Also, I don’t know what kind of extraction process Aker uses to obtain the krill oil. Because of my uncertainties, I’m hesitant to use products with Superba Krill oil. Costco sells Mega Red at a great price; however, the Mega Red label recommends a single 300 mg softgel per day - that’s the lowest recommendation on ANY krill oil product label. I’ll stick with 1000 mg/day.
FYI: Azantis, a company in Colorado, sources Enzymotic krill oil and provides it to several companies (for example, to Source Naturals ArticPure oil and Jarrow Forumulas; interestingly, both of those companies also package a krill oil using Neptune krill oil).
From everything I’ve seen, the best bargain in high-quality krill oil right now is NOW Foods Neptune krill oil. I’ve seen it for about $33 for 120 500-mg softgels. That’s about $16.50 a month. Many companies offer free shipping either with promotion codes or minimum orders.
Finally, the recommendation to freeze the softgels before taking them seems to go against the recommendations of the manufacturers. I haven’t had any digestive issues with krill oil, so I have no motive to do “tricks” to make it more palatable.
February 4th, 2010 at 1:12 am
Thank you for your valuable contribution, WH! I appreciate it!
I don’t have any digestive issues with krill oil either. However my mother does and unfortunately, she’s not the only one. This is the primary reason why Now Foods has just released a 1,000 mg NKO softgel that is enterically coated.
http://nowfoods.com/Products/078346.htm
Be well!
JP
February 4th, 2010 at 12:25 pm
Hi, JP,
Yeah, I noticed that new NOW product the other day. And it’s price is pretty much the same as their “regular” krill oil.
One other thing about price: I’ve seen brands that are VERY cheap (as low as 10 cents / 500mg softgel), but when I check the levels of EPA and DHA, they’re always significantly lower than for the Neptune, Superba, and Azantis oils (which are all around 150 mg EPA and 90 mg DHA, and about 400 mg total phospholipids). I think these less expensive brands are using krill oil produced from Euphausia crystallorophias or Euphausia pacifica krill, rather than Euphausia superba (the antarctic krill).
An interesting point about stability for the Superba oil: I still have a couple of bottles of the Schiff’s Mega Red I purchased six months ago at Costco (it contains Neptune oil): The listed expiration date is 5/11. Last week I went to Costco and checked the expiration dates for the new version of Mega Red that uses Superba oil: the expiration date was 3/11. Six months newer, but an expiration date 2 months older. Hmmm. It could be that the Superba oil used by Schiff was from an older production run by Aker or it could be that the shelf-life of Superba oil is much shorter.
February 4th, 2010 at 3:33 pm
That’s an interesting observation, WH.
An online site I often order from now lists the expiration dates of the products they carry. Apparently they can do so with sufficient accuracy due to their quick turn over and volume purchases. The only problem, re: krill oil, is that they don’t currently stock any Superba sourced products.
I can contact Aker and see what they have to say about this issue. I’ll report back with any information they provide.
Be well!
JP
February 5th, 2010 at 6:04 pm
I recently exchanged e-mails with an AkerBiomarine representative regarding the differences between Neptune Krill Oil and Superba krill oil. Here’s a brief overview of what I was told:
1. Superba krill oil is extracted using ethanol rather than acetone.
2. AkerBiomarine gathers the krill themselves using their own vessel. They also utilize a sustainable collection regime in order to ensure adequate populations of krill and minimal damage to surrounding sea life.
3. Superba does not contain added astaxanthin. However it naturally provides between 100-150 ppm of this carotenoid.
4. Superba soft gels are guaranteed to be stable for 18 months.
I’ll ask the same questions of Nutrisan Nutraceuticals (the makers of NKO) and see what they have to say.
Be well!
JP
February 6th, 2010 at 3:24 am
Great info, LP.
Today I received a supply of NOW krill oil. The “Best By” date stamped on the bottom of the containers is 11/2012 - 33 months from now. So I’m almost certain that NKO has a shelf life of three years.
Is the difference merely because Aker is being very conservative and/or that Neptune Technologies & Bioressources (or is it Nutrisan Nutraceuticals? - I’ve never heard of them before) is being optimistic? Or does the astaxanthin supplementation make a big difference. Or is there something else?
The NOW geltabs have a somewhat unpleasant but not too strong odor of “bad shrimp”. Mega Red geltabs (with Superba oil) is strongly (”cloyingly?”) scented with vanillin, and you can’t smell anything else.
By the way, NOW on their container states a level of “esterifed astaxanthin” of only 1.25 mg, as compared with 1.5 mg for all of the other NKO krill oil brands I’ve checked. I contacted NOW and they emailed back, “We are not sourcing a different material [from Neptune], just being very specific in our labeling.”
I’m not entirely sure what that means. Maybe Neptune supplements at a rate of 1 mg per 1000 mg of krill oil, and the “natural” level is “at least” .25 mg. So perhaps NOW is being conservative.
The ethanol versus acetone method of extraction is very, very interesting. I would hope there’s no residue of either solvent left in the finished product. What do the manufacturers say?
February 6th, 2010 at 1:59 pm
WH,
Let’s both keep on digging for more facts/info. and see what we come up with. I’ve already sent an inquiry to the NKO people but haven’t received a response yet.
Incidentally, did you happen to read my previous column on astaxanthin and cardiovascular health? It ties into the conversation we’re having here.
http://www.healthyfellow.com/406/natural-heart-attack-protection/
One thing the AkerBiomarine rep also stated was that they felt as though the omega-3s and phosolipids were likely the most important elements of krill oil. However the rep did acknowledge that astanxanthin could be therapeutic at levels at or above 2000 ppm.
I wonder how many of the benefits attributed to krill oil are due to the astaxanthin component vs. the DHA/EPA + phospholipids?
Be well!
JP