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  • Q&A with Australian Health Practitioners

    Omega 3 Fish Oil vs Krill Oil - any special benefits?

    Related Topic
    Nutrition
    Are there really any special benefits of krill oil capsules compared to regular fish oil capsules?

    I did a bit of research on krill and only found two scientific articles about the benefits of Krill, one regarding the benefits of carotenoids within the krill oil and another about using krill to reduce weight loss.
    Any suggestions?
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  • Dr Melinda Ricci

    Chiropractor

    Dr. Melinda Ricci has a passion for optimizing health and preventing injury. Success Chiropractic has a Pediatric treatment facility, remedial massage, yoga and pilates classes … View Profile

    The jury is still out on this subject, although it is the focus of research into nutritional supplements at present so more information will soon be published. One claim is that Krill oil contains a phospholipid form of Omega 3, the addition of the phosphate molecule makes it more bioavailable, meaning that more is absorbed by the body. Another argument is that Krill supplies are more sustainable than sourcing Omega 3 from fish, and that due to krill being at the lower end of the food scale, it is less likely to contain contaminants.  Axtaxanthin is also present in krill, making it less perishable. 

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  • Chris Fonda

    Dietitian, Nutritionist, Sports Dietitian

    As an Accredited Sports Dietitian, APD and athlete (springboard diver), Chris has both professional and personal experience in sport at the sub-elite and elite level.Chris … View Profile

    To add to Melindas response, even though Krill supplies appear more sustainable, what do many marine animals and organisms rely on krill for their food? Should we be taking out a valuable food source from the ocean and using it to our benefit? Are they being farmed? Its hard to say at this stage due to needing more studies to be done in this area. And what about the cost? Krill oil is more expensive than fish oil, not everyone can afford it. Just a few things to consider other than just the bioavailability.

    Also if you are allergic to crustacea, krill oil is definately not recommended for you as it may invoke anaphylaxis or an allergic reaction. Omega-3 from fish oil is still absorbed quite well (100%) and the Heart Foundation recommends that all Australians achieve 500mg of combined EPA/DHA everyday for good health. If you are at risk of heart disease, you would need more (approx. 1000mg EPA/DHA per day) but best to consult an Accredited Practising Dietitian (APD) who can tailor dietary advice just for you. You can find an APD at www.daa.asn.au

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