Why krill oil?
A few days ago I posted on a fish oil/krill oil/curcumin regimen that I’ve been using to treat joint and muscle soreness after golf. I had a number of comments wanting to know about krill oil and why I made it part of the treatment protocol. Your wish is my command.
Krill oil, logically enough, comes from krill, which are small, shrimp like crustaceans that inhabit the cold ocean areas of the world, primarily the Antarctic and North Pacific Oceans. Despite their small size–one to five centimeters in length–krill make up the largest animal biomass on the planet. According to Neptune Technologies, the Canadian company that holds the patent for krill oil extraction, there are approximately 500 million tons of krill roaming around in these northern seas, 110,000 tons of which are harvested annually.
A krill, in profile
Krill oil, like fish oil, contains both of the omega-3 fats eicosapentanoic acid (EPA) and docosahexanoic acid (DHA), but hooked together in a different form. In fish oil these omega-3 fatty acids are found in the triglyceride form whereas in krill oil they are hooked up in a double chain phospholipid structure. (The fats in our own cell walls are in the phospholipid form.) Attached to the EPA leg of the phospholipid is a molecule of astaxanthin, an extremely potent anti-oxidant. The phospholipid structure of the EPA and DHA in krill oil makes them much more absorbable and allows for a much easier entrance into the mitochondria and the cellular nucleus. In addition to EPA and DHA krill oil contains a complex phospholipid profile including phosphatidylcholine, a potent source of reductive-stress-reducing choline, which also acts as a natural emulsifier.
Krill oil contains vitamin E, vitamin A, vitamin D and canthaxanthin, which is, like astaxanthin, a potent anti-oxidant. The anti-oxidant potency of krill oil is such that when compared to fish oil in tems of ORAC (Oxygen radical absorptance capacity) values it was found to be 48 times more potent than fish oil.
The astaxanthin found in krill oil provides excellent protection against ultravoilet light and UV-induced skin damage. It was for this reason that I started taking krill oil to begin with–I only discovered its other virtues later on.
A number of studies have shown that krill oil is tremendously effective in reducing LDL-cholesterol, raising HDL-cholesterol, and lowering blood sugar. It has been shown to be effective in treating the pain and inflammation from rheumatoid arthritis and aches and pains in general. One large study showed that krill oil has tremendous benefits in terms of symptom reduction in PMS and dysmenorrhea. And it has been shown to be effective in the treatment of adult ADHD. In all these studies krill oil was tested against fish oil and not simply a placebo.
Due to the rapid absorption of krill oil and the high anti-oxidant content there is virtually never the fishy burping and aftertaste sometimes experienced with fish oil. And there are no other side effects to speak of. The jury is out right now on if and to what degree there is a problem for those people allergic to shrimp. Until the jury is in, I would be careful in taking krill oil if I had a shrimp allergy.
Are there any downsides to this miracle substance? Only one. It is a little more pricey than fish oil, but, as with all things, you get what you pay for. Virtually all krill oil is produced by Neptune Technologies and shipped to the various supplement manufacturers, so any krill oil you get will have come from the same place and be the same dosage. The only unknown is how long it has been sitting around in a warehouse somewhere, which is, of course, the same unkown with fish oil. At least with krill oil, thanks to the high anti-oxidant content, the shelf life is much longer.
One last thing. I neglected to mention in my previous post that popping a couple of fish oil and krill oil caps don’t give the same immediate relief as popping a NSAID. It takes a while–a couple of weeks in my case–for the fish oil/krill oil to provide the same degree of pain relief as the NSAID. So, the take home message is: don’t take your first dose and compare it to the relief you got with a dose of NSAID. If you do, you will not believe the program works and will probably think me an idiot. It takes a while, so give it time. In the study I mentioned in the last post, the subjects took the fish oil for two weeks along with their NSAIDs, then tapered off the drugs and treated their pain with the fish oil alone.
Hi! That was a great post with a lot of good information. I noticed in your last entry that you’re continuing to take fish oil along with the krill oil. After reading your current entry that struck me because the phospholipid form sounds much better. Is it because you can’t get EPA/DHA in sufficient quantities from krill oil without getting excessive amounts of vitamins/antioxidants?
Hi Tad–
No, I’m not worried about excess vitamins/antioxidants with the krill oil. I take the fish oil in addition just to get a little more of the good fats in a less expensive form. I figure that there is plenty of antioxidant in the krill oil to cover the EPA and DHA in the fish oil.
Best–
MRE
BTW, my friend’s retriever is having arthritis and on a regime of
So yes definitely a good idea for pets as well!
- krill oil
- COX2Tame
- SAMe Joint (SAMe & glucosamine)
- chondroitine
as well as winstrol (the vet’s giving it to her). The supplements are ours and this combo worked remarkably well within 3 weeks. You’d wish that people get treated as well as this particular dog
Great post Mike but I can’t seem to purchase the products online at their web site? Any ideas on how to buy the stuff?
Hi Fred–
Neptune Technologies doesn’t sell directly to the public, but it produces all the krill oil that is for sale out there. I’ve seen it at health food stores, Whole Foods and other natural food markets, and a million places online. It is called Neptune Krill Oil or NKO. Since it all comes from the same place, shop based on price. We are currently looking for a source so that we can put it on our website.
Best–
Mike
I spotted the NKO at Whole Foods last night and it’s currently on sale. I would have picked up a couple of bottles but didn’t have my checkbook with me so I’m going to go back this weekend and get some. I believe that the tag said the sale price is good until 8/1/06. I can’t recall the price off-hand (I have a hard time remembering numbers) but had just been looking up prices on NKO yesterday afternoon and it was definitely cheaper than what I had been looking at. I’m going to give the curcumin a try, too.
Also, I have a question. Just how much fish oil should one take? I currently take 3 caps a day of the Carlson Norwegian Salmon Oil. I used to take 6 until I read somewhere that that was too many but other sources say 6 is ok so I’m getting rather confused. Thanks for posting about GLA. I think I must have read the same thing about it that you did and started to take it but based on what you’ve said, I’ve eliminated it. Also, what do you think of flax? A lot of folks are crazy about it but I can’t eat the ground meal as it triggers my IBS symptoms and the oil is rather pricey and it’s my understanding that the fish oil is better anyway. Thanks!
Hi Esther–
You don’t really have to take a lot of fish oil to get the benefit from it. As I posted, I’m taking two fish oil and two krill oil capsules per day, which is probably about all I would recommend.
If you’re on a low-carb diet I would avoid the GLA.
I don’t think a whole lot of flax. The fatty acids you need are the EPA and the DHA, neither of which the flax contains; your body has to convert the particular type of omega-3 contained in flax oil into fats. If you’re ill, or getting a little old, or diabetic, o have any number of problems your conversion apparatus doesn’t work optimally so you don’t get the amounts of EPA and DHA you need from the flax oil. Why not let the fish or krill do the conversion for you and get the EPA and DHA already formed?
Best–
MRE
Hi Doctor , my husband and I use a krill oil as well . The company that makes it has extremely high standards and it’s called MarineOmega .
Hi Cindy–
Unless I miss my bet, the krill oil contained in the MarineOmega product comes from Neptune Technologies.
Best–
MRE
Oh I forgot to mention that the makers of MarineOmega actually send someone from their company to examine the Krill for perfection before they agree to buy .
Hi, I get a lot of nasty aftertaste/reflux from fish oil caps(and I’m on Prevacid for a hiatal hernia). Is this true of krill?
Thanks.
Hi Elaine–
One of the many virtues of krill oil is that it doesn’t have the problem of fishy reflux/burping/aftertaste. Because of its phospholipid structure the krill oil absorbs much more rapidly, and because of the high concentration of anti-oxidants the oil stays fresh. I would give it a try.
If you want to try a different fish oil, try Nordic Naturals. It’s the only brand I’ve ever used that virtually never gives ‘fishy’ reflux.
Best–
MRE
My husband tried to take fish oil and it made him sick (not sure what kind of sick) however the flax oil doesn’t so he has been taking that. He has heart disease with one blocked artery and is on a whole mess of pills.
Would the krill oil be a replacement for fish/flax oil for him?
thanks
Cathie
Hi Cathie–
The fact that is absorbs so well and reduces the problems with fish oil is the major virtue of krill oil. Tell him to give it a try. Let me know how is works out.
Best–
MRE
I read the rheumatoid arthritis extract. It seems that I could reduce my daily intake of 10 grams of fish oil to 3 grams of krill oil. This assumption is based on the finding that 1 gram of krill oil was more effective than 3 grams of fish oil.
I found another supplier of krill oil. NSI at vitacost.com. I was delighted to calculate that the daily cost of krill oil would only rise to 39 cents a day from 25 cents/day for fish oil.
Unfortunately, the NSI oil is not as potent, with 1/3 the EPA per gram and almost 1/4 the DHA. And the Astaxanthin is 2 mg versus 15 mg. So the low-cost NSI krill oil is probably not as effective as Neptune.
Probably my solution will be to take a combination of krill oil and fish oil. The prospect of improvements in lipoproteins and glucose control seem worth the trouble.
Hi Dave–
Keep me posted on how you do.
Best–
MRE
About the Neptune astaxanthin 15mg level. I was misled by a label typo. I believe that 1.5 mg is correct for Neptune.
Hello.
Doesn’t krill oil contain Omega 6? Are you concerned at all about ingesting any additional Omega 6?
Thanks.
Hi Diana–
There is a minuscule amount of omega-6 in krill oil, which is no big deal because there is so much more omega-3. It’s the ratio of the two that matters. Most foods contain some omega-6. Even a beef steak will have a little. Don’t worry about the tiny bit in krill oil.
Best–
MRE
Hi Dr. Mike! I’ve really been enjoying your blog. I hadn’t heard of krill oil before, and it is fascinating (although far out of reach of my budget at this time, unfortunately). I can see that the krill oil (and/or a cold water fish BODY oil) would be a *better* choice, but do you and MDE still consider the Carlson’s (lemon-flavored) cod liver oil to be a decent product? I took 1 tablespoon per day for a number of years until I couldn’t afford it any more, and I hope to be able to squeeze it back into my budget pretty soon here.
Hi Donna–
Yes, we still think that Carlson’s cod liver oil is fine. At the time we recommended it we couldn’t find any fish oil capsules that we thought were good (i.e., lacking in peroxidized oils); now there are a number of fish oils out there that qualify.
Best–
MRE
i was wondering about mercury (heavy metal) content in the krill oil - how does it compare to say Carlson’s or Nordic Naturals’ CLO? my concern is a child with mercury-related autism. thanks!
Hi Louise–
Don’t worry about the mercury, heavy metals, etc. because there are none. Krill, due to their size and the fact that they are at the bottom of the food chain, have virtually no contaminants. The oil extraction process of Neptune Technologies gets out anything that may be there. I would have no hesitation using Neptune krill oil with a patient with autism. In fact, I suspect it would help.
Best–
MRE
hi, i have a question. Is there any experience with intake of krill oil by autistic infants? In terms of effective doses, and margins to them maximum intake/day).
On parents’ forum, I found NKO mentioned occasionally as an interesting option yet I haven’t found any scientific publication on the subject.
My concern is with my autistic daughter who is 2 1/2 years of age and 14 kilo’s body weight.
Hi Ben–
I’ve read one paper that was a case report of an autistic girl (I’m pretty sure it was a girl because I remember thinking when I read the paper how few girls are autistic compared to boys) who made pretty remarkable improvement on krill oil. I don’t know if she had been tried on fish oil first and then switched to krill oil or had simply been put on krill oil to begin with.
It certainly wouldn’t hurt to give the krill oil a try. I would puncture one of the gel caps a squirt the contents into something your daughter likes to eat and mix it in. One capsule about 4 or 5 times per week should be plenty.
If you haven’t read them yet, a couple of pretty good sources on treatment of autism are:
The Natural Medicine Guide to Autism by Stephanie Marohn This book can be had through Amazon.com and found in bookstores.
Biological Treatments for Autism and PDD by William Shaw, MD. This book you can find at the following site: http://www.greatplainslaboratory.com. Great Plains Lab does a lot of the testing for various parameters checked in autistic kids.
Good luck. Keep me posted.
MRE
Dr. Mike,
After reading your excellent article on Krill oil, I simply had to research it myself, and spent several hours on the internet this morning. I am convinced it is far superior to traditional fish oil capsules. It’s too bad it never caught on in the marketplace. My local health food store, Lindbergs, said they sold it a few years ago but it never caught on, so they stopped selling it!
Two other stores in my immediate area do carry it - Whole Foods, and a smaller health food store, so I bought some. However, you and your readers might be interested to know that I just found out amazon.com is selling different brands of krill oil at amazing prices - half of what I paid for it today at the store.
Just thought I’d let you know in case you want to pass on the word.
Hi Sheryl–
Thanks for the info. I’ll be happy to pass it on.
Best–
MRE
I take cod liver oil caps, would it benefit me to also take krill?
I have low thyroid function and am on synthroid. That and
nexium are the only meds I take. Also my husband has back problems annd High blood pressue, would this help him?
Thank you
Doris De Jong
Hi Ms. De Jong–
I can’t make specific medical recommendations, but I can say that in my case and those of others posting comments here the addition of krill oil helps.
Krill oil contains a number of anti-inflammatory agents along with the EPA and DHA. making it a more potent anti-inflammatory agent that plain cod liver oil.
Best–
MRE
Dr. Mike,
I just read an alarming report on Jean Carper’s blog. I cut and past the email address for you:
http://www.jeancarper.com/newsflash/1727 - 18k
In it she says that all the benefits I’m reading about krill oil are a lot of hype, and that regular fish oil is more beneficial. In this blog she states that fish oil is a better source of antioxidants than krill oil and cites CoQ10, etc. in fish oil. But isn’t the CoQ10 she talks about,an ADDED antioxidant? It is my understanding that Krill oil contains it’s own NATURAL antioxidants. She also says that krill oil is a much less potent source of fish oil, and what we’re reading in the press is bunk, more or less.
She goes on to state that there are only two studies done to back up krill oil, done by the manufacturer, whereas fish oil has 40 years of studies to back it up.
Dr. Mike, please give your opinion of this. I realize that Jean Carper is a medical journalist only reporting what she finds. Please say it ain’t true! From what I read, I was very impressed with the benefits of krill oil and the double blind studies they used. Also, it’s my understanding it takes less of krill oil to do what a higher amount of regular fish oil can do in one’s system.
Dr. Mike, what do you think?
Sincerely, Sheryl
Hi Sheryl–
What can I say? Based on my research on the subject, she’s simply wrong. You are absolutely correct in everything you write in your last paragraph.
Best–
MRE
Dr. Mike,
My “duh” moment has passed since I sent you my comment a moment ago. I went back on Jean Carper’s website.
Jean Carper is SELLING fish oil capsules on her website! Enough said!
Sincerely, Sheryl
Hi again Sheryl–
I’m soon going to be selling my favorite fish oil on my website along with krill oil (if I can find a source I like). I guess that will make me suspect, too.
Cheers–
M
Dr. Mike, if you can get us decent prices on the krill oil, I’m sure you’ll have yourself customers, me included!
Hi Sheryl–
That’s why I’m trying to find a good distributor.
Cheers–
MRE
what is the size if the krill oil market and what is the price level in bulk. i was wondering if you could comment on the present situation as well as future forecast;
Hi Szemioth–
I haven’t a clue as to the size of the krill oil market. Nor do I know what it costs in bulk since I’ve never ordered it that way.
I only know that it works and why; I haven’t made a study of the economics of the krill oil business.
Wish I could be of more help.
Best–
MRE
Thanks for all the good dope on krill. I has angina starting in 2002 getting steadily worse. In July 2003 I started taking 6 caps a day of Res-Q 1250 (fish oil concentrated with 750mg of EPA and DHA in each 1250mg pill) and 2 of LDLX, a red rice yeast, as recommended and sold by http://www.n3inc.com They promised that my total cholesterol would come down in 8 weeks (it did from 240 to 160) and that after that my arteries would start cleaning out.
In 12/2003 my angina peaked, I got a nuclear stress test and was invited to have an angiogram the next week. I declined and hoped that Res-Q would work. By 10/2004 my angina had disappeared. This past march I had a 64 slice CT scan which disclosed that I had one 50% block of hard placque (calcium) and several soft blocks of about 20-30%. The doc said my arteries were as good as most 30 year olds (I am 70). The 64 slice machine is as good if not better than an angiogram (the pictures show exactly where blockage is and precisely how severe a block. I could see for myself. I highly recommend that everyone with any doubt get 64 slice CT scan (machines are about a year old now) or wait a year or more for the next version, a 128 or 256 slice which will really be accurate. Takes about 6 minutes.
I don’t quite understand why you still take fish oil as well as the krill. Is this a cost issue only or if not why not take 3 krill instead?
Best regards, Ben
Hi Ben–
Good question. Although the krill works at lesser doses, I continue to take the fish oil just because the studies on heart rhythm were all done with fish oil. I guess I’m just trying to cover all my bases. If I were going to take just one supplement, though, it would definitely be the krill oil.
I’m glad to hear of your success with the fish oil. Keep it up.
Best–
MRE
Hi Doc,
I have been doing alot of research on the net about Krill oil and couldn’t find anything negative about it.I have eaten shrimp all my life and on rare occasions i have experienced a mild itching between my fingers but that’s about it and i have been to an allergist who tested me for allergy to shrimp and they told me i showed an allergic reaction on my skin.They said i should not eat shrimps or lobsters but i have been consuming these products all my life with no serious side effects.My question to you is could i take krill oil in small amount and gradually build up my dosages over a period of weeks or months? I would appreciate any advice you can give me on how to build up my tolerance to this great product. Thank you.
Best Regards,
Max Parsanlal.
Hi Max–
If you’ve been eating shrimp and lobster all your life without problems, I doubt that the krill oil will bother you. I would be careful just the same and maybe puncture one of the caplets and try a tiny dose first (a fraction of a caplet–it doesn’t’ taste bad) and work up from there. Remember, anaphylactic reactions can be fatal, so if you’ve had a problem, I would recommend that you should try your first ‘dose’ with someone present.
Best–
MRE
Hello,
I started taking krill oil shortly (1 month) before I discovered Mike’s info on it here. It seems it may have helped with some agravating knee pain I was experiencing the past couple years.
I was suprised to find out that all “NKO” krill oil is manufactured by the same source. So it’s ok to “shop based on price” assuming they store it properly. I did some researching and bought from the cheapest (reputable looking) source at $20 shipped. But I noticed a stronger fishy smell with this brand, although it is also NKO krill oil, with a year left on the expiration date.
I did the bite test and it doesn’t taste good, but bearable. Got a slight bad aftertaste. Didn’t bite test the first brand for comparison (already used up). So I don’t know if that’s just how krill oil always tastes. Also noticed the softgel is almost hard instead of flexible like the other brand. I’m thinking it’s not spoiled, but perhaps less fresh. I’m not sure though. Considering throwing it out to be on the safe side and buying from the first place again (which sells in higher volume, so fresher maybe). What’s everyone elses experience with the NKO krill oil softgels?
Hi Rich–
The type we use originate–as do they all–from Neptune Technologies. I’ve never yet gotten a batch that had a unpleasant smell. Since you purchased yours for about $20, which is the cheapest I’ve ever seen them, I wonder if Neptune off loaded a bunch that were a little long in the tooth for a low, low price? I don’t know; I’m just speculating.
MRE
Hi Mike M.D.
Thanks for the feedback on your experience. Have you ever come across NKO softgels that are hard (not flexible to touch)? I contacted the company about returning for a refund (awaiting their response).
Hi Rich–
All of the NKO caplets I get are soft. I’ve never encountered one that is hard. If I did I would probably send it back as well.
Best–
MRE
Hello MRE
Reference rich’s comments oct 3.
I bought Jarrow brand krill that was shipped cross country during heat spell last summer. The stuff smelled badly when I opened first bottle. The nutritionist at the company claimed the product was not damaged by the heat and that product does have strong odor anyway. I had some stomach problems after taking 50 or so tablets at one a day. Don’t know if the krill caused it but I have been trying to get refund on the other full bottle to no avail. The company rep will not return my phone calls. I was hoping for quick resolution of this so that I could order another bottle in this cooler weather.
Hi Norm–
I would not take krill oil caps that had an unpleasant smell. I have no experience with Jarrow, so I don’t know what your chances of a refund are.
Thanks for giving us a heads up.
Good luck–
MRE
Hi Dr Eades,
You mentioned that Krill oil has been shown to be beneficial in the treatment of adult ADHD. I did a medline search, and couldn’t find any references of such an effect. Could you point me in the right direction?
On another note, I had once mentioned an article about increased levels of Superoxide dismutase, glutathione proxidase, and catalase in cold water swimmers, but forgot to send you the article. Here’s the link, it should be free.
http://qjmed.oxfordjournals.org/cgi/content/full/92/4/193
Hi M.R.–
Here is a link for a study by Neptune Technologies on krill oil and adult ADHD.
Thanks for the link. I’ll keep all that in mind the next time I plunge into the frigid waters of Lake Tahoe.
Cheers–
MRE
Hi Mike M.D.
I was wondering if you still refrigerate your krill oil in a glass bottle (as mentioned at http://www.proteinpower.com/drmike/?p=148). I noticed that it says on the product page for krill oil (on this site) not to refrigerate. I’ve heard conflict on this from other sites as well (saying different things) and I’m confused.
Some say don’t refrigerate at all, others say refrigerate, and others say refrigerate during long-term storage (such as when you have multiple bottles not being used), but not when being used since it supposedly absorbs better at room temperature. Will refrigeration damage the capsules or krill oil?
Sincerely,
Rich
Hi Rich–
We have always refrigerated our fish oil capsules. When we first started taking krill oil we refirgerated that as well. After a week or so the capsules became weepy and gooey and all stuck together. At first I figured it was just a bad bottle, but when I tried another the same thing happened. At about this same time I happeded to run into a vendor for krill oil at a trade show. I told him about this, and he said NOT to refrigerate the capsules. I asked why, and he told me that they shouldn’t be refrigerated because of their phospholipid structure. I’ve been thinking about it and can’t figure out why the phospholipid structure would have anything to do with why the capsules would go bad with refrigeration. But, they did go bad, so we quit refrigerating them, and they’ve been fine since.
We have inquiries in to the scientists at Neptune Technologies and are waiting to hear back. As soon as I do, I will post whatever I find out. Until then, I will continue NOT to refrigerate, and I would recommend the same to you.
Best–
MRE
I bought some NKO Krill Oil and tried it out for a month. At the same time that I started taking the KO, I stopped taking Spring Valley’s Super Omega Complex with Omega 3, 6 & 9. Why take both, I thought. KO is supposed to be superior.
During that month, my period cramping & PMS intensified & the inflammation in my dry eye syndrome worsened. I decided to return to taking the SOC from Walmart (Walmart’s brand has been rated very high by the Consumer Report Magazine).
My conclusion is that the Krill Oil was NOT superior to the Super Omega Complex in reducing inflammation. (I’ve since read that period cramping is also a result of inflammation.) I have also experimented in the past with taking Fish Oil ONLY compared to taking the SOC. The SOC did a much better job at reducing inflammation than just the fish oil alone. That’s something you don’t hear very often. I read this article on line (by Michael Smith):
“There’s clinical agreement about the overabundance of omega-6 fatty acids in the average American’s diet. It’s not that omega-6s are “bad.” After all, they’re essential nutrients that help stimulate hair and skin growth and regulate metabolism, among other things. …….Proper levels of omega-6, gamma linolenic acid (GLA), can also function as a PMS regulator, immune system strengthener and arthritis inhibitor.
The problem is that, while the American diet does contain an overabundance of omega-6 sources, the oil is most commonly found in processed shortenings and vegetable oils, which the body is incapable of metabolizing into a useful form. It’s like putting diesel fuel into a gasoline-fueled car. The tank may be full, but the car can’t make use of the gas….”
So perhaps the hype about KO stems from the fact that people are not getting enough of the right form of Omega 6, and KO does provide Omega 3, 6 & 9. But in my opinion, you don’t have to buy KO to get the EFAs or “fuel” that your body can use.
Hi Wendy–
Thanks for an alternative viewpoint. Were I you, I would do exactly as you have done; it obviously works for you.
The standard American diet does contain way too much omega-6 fats, many of which are NOT partially hydrogenated, and the body can use them just fine. The problem is the ratio of omega-6 to omega-3, not just the overall levels of either.
Because of its phospholipid structure, I believe krill oil is better absorbable and will provide more rapid benefit to more people than fish oil.
Thanks for writing.
MRE
I tried the Krill oil, 1.5g/d just as in the study, and use genuine “Neptune” product. After 4 months - Trig down from 105 to 90. HDL no meaningful change (from 41 to 39), LDL no meaningful change (from 165 to 168). All of the studies looked great, but the product just didn’t work in the real world. Suggest to everyone that you wait until there are meaningful studies in “real” peer-reviewed medical journals that don’t have ties to the supplement industry before you thrust your whole future into this one.
It of course could be that I was the one out of 1000 that just didn’t respond. Or, perhaps it just isn’t all it is cracked up to be.
Hi Tsobs–
I would never recommend krill oil for its cholesterol altering properties, although in your case it did seem to work to lower the most important parameter of all: triglyceride levels (which in your case fell from 105 to 90). I recommended krill oil as an anti-inflammatory for back and joint pain. I don’t really care what it does to cholesterol levels because I don’t believe that cholesterol levels mean squat.
Cheers–
MRE
I had abnormal EKG Dr. said I possibly have a blockage My heart is not getting enough blood. So I went to homeopathy dr. he said to take 8 cap of Krill Oil a day for 30 days then 4 cap a day for 30 days I concern is it has 300mg of krill oil per cap won’t that thin your blood don’t know what to do, he said it would clean my arteries fast doing that.
Hi Peggy–
Good luck. Keep us posted on how you’re doing.
Best–
MRE
Peggy -
If you think you have been diagnosed with a possible heart blockage you had better consult and treat with an M.D. cardiologist, not a “homeopathy Dr.” who is treating your condition with Krill oil capsules. There is not a shred of evidence anywhere that this Krill oil is going to “clean your arteries” of a blockage!!!! This kind of advice is going to land you in the cemetery. Dr. Eades - please comment, this person’s life may be at risk.
Hi Tsobs–
I can’t ethically get in the middle of this. It goes without saying that any and all should seek the advice of qualified physicians for serious health problems. Many MD physicians believe in and practice homeopathy, even some cardiologists, I would suspect. I can’t recommend physicians and I can’t prescribe and I can’t recommend for or against other physician’s treatment plans online.
MRE
I’ve always had pretty dry skin and some asthma; and don’t carry any extra weight. I started taking krill because fish oils seemed too strong and led me to the bathroom often. But after taking them for a couple months now, for the first time in my life I have oily skin and am breaking out.
The anti inflammation affects have been terrific for breathing in the cold winter weather, but it looks like I may have to cut back to one a day for skin purposes. Have you run into this? Julie
Hi Julie–
No, I haven’t experienced this problem. Were I you, I would cut my dose back a little to see if I could find a dose that provides enough anti-inflammation to keep your asthma in check yet doesn’t cause the oil skin. You might try adding about 500 mg of circumin per day to the reduced krill oil regimen. The circumim will intensify the anti-inflammatory effect, but should affect your skin.
Keep us posted.
Best–
MRE
Thanks for your reply.
I try to keep up with health matters but I’ve not heard of curcumim - what is it and where might I find it?
Thanks much* Julie
Hi Julie–
Circumin is an extract of turmeric. It has great anti-inflammatory properties. We will ultimately have it for sale on our website, but you can purchase it at any health food store or online. I take 500 mg per day, but many people with serious inflammatory problems take much more.
Best–
MRE
It’s great to be able to discuss the pros and cons of something like krill oil on this site, since some health issues are simply not that easy to find reliable information on.** Since reading an above note that mentioned the smell of krill oil, I decided to cut open one of our krill oil capsules. These are red in color and quite firm (swansons) … and the smell wasn’t very pleasant. HOW could you know if these aren’t fresh … or if it’s not in your best interest to take them ?? thanks - Julie
Hi Julie–
Krill oil is more stinky or fishy smelling than fish oil. I just got in a fresh bottle, so I opened a gelcap and smelled it–it did indeed have a fishy odor. I then chewed a gelcap and it didn’t taste too bad.
With the technology we have today, I would guess that krill oil would be good for at least a year. I did a test with mine in the refrigerator after transferring them from a plastic bottle into a glass bottle. After doing this and keeping them in the fridge for two weeks, they were fine. I think the oozing that comes from refrigeration while in plastic bottles comes from the humidity that penetrates the plastic bottles.
Best–
MRE
I have recently started the krill (NPO) capsules; however, I have also been taking cod liver oil (1 teaspoon a day). My question is: Is this too much oil? Can’t vitamin A or D build up in the liver and become toxic?
Brenda McDowell
Hi Brenda–
Most of the A and D comes from the cod liver oil, and one teaspoon per day won’t give you enough to worry about, assuming you’re not taking other supplements with large amounts of A and D.
Best–
MRE
My son, who had a kidney transplant a year ago, is allowed to take typical, reasonable doses of fish oil. Would he be able to substitute krill, or does it act on the immune system in more powerful ways than fish oil does?
Thanks,
AOM
Hi AOM–
I would check with his physician just to make sure, but I don’t see any reason krill oil would cause a problem.
Best–
MRE
I was talking to a trainer at the gym where I workout. He said he’s been taking krill for the purpose of losing weight, and he has. He said he takes 2 tablets or capsules at lunch time and does it for 10 days, then goes off for 15 days, then repeats the cycle but takes 3 a day. What do you recommend? I’m 41, have always had a low % bodyfat, but I feel my metabolism slowing down. I still workout 3-4 days a week, including 20-30 min of cardio. I can’t seem to trim the waist area with the ease that I used to. Will Krill help?
Thanks, John
Hi John–
Krill oil contains long-chain polyunsaturated fats. It has been shown that these fats have a lipolytic (fat breakdown) effect, but I’m not sure there is enough in a couple of krill oil softgels per day to effect much lipolysis.
The single best way I’ve found to get rid of excess fat around the waist in a hurry is to go on almost an all-meat diet. Such a diet is high in leucine, which is required to build muscle, and low in carbohydrates. Carbohydrates increase lipogenesis (the build up of fat), so decreasing them does the opposite and stimulates fat burning.
Hope this helps.
MRE
I have been taking MarineOmega for a little over a year. One month ago I stopped taking it and started with Nature’s Made Fish Oil tablets (this contains no Krill oil). I have noticed that I don’t feel as “alert” anymore, and sometimes I really have to concentrate on things. Could this be that the MarineOmega has 100mg of NKO and the new tablets don’t contain any Krill Oil?
I have bought a bottle of Twinlab Cardio Krill Oil to see if I notice any difference. Can different combined amounts of EPA/DHA produce this effect?
Thanks, Marie
Hi Marie–
I’m not familiar with any of the brands you have been taking so I don’t know about their EPA/DHA dosages. I do know that krill oil has a different fatty acid structure that allows it to be absorbed better and have a more potent effect.
I would try adding a krill oil softgel to your new fish oil capsules and see if the problem goes away.
Cheers–
MRE
I see all these comments on cod liver oil but none on salmon oil. I have gotten the impression that sockeye salmon oil is better, what do you think?
Al
Hi Al–
I think that most of the commercially prepared fish oils are salmon oil. In my opinion, krill oil is better than either fish oil or cod liver oil.
Cheers–
MRE
Is there a source that you know of that offers Krill oil in bulk. I do not like to consume gel caps made with beef gelatin.
Hi Atiso–
There is no source I know of, but that doesn’t mean one doesn’t exist. You might try contacting Neptune Technologies directly to see if they would sell krill oil in bulk.
Let me know what you find out.
Cheers–
MRE
Amazing Info !!
Ok Doctor. I am sure you have heard this before, but I had a unique situation and I’d like your opinion.
I am 28, 6″3 220lbs, been in athletic shape all my life, but have had several joints dis-located, fingers broken, knuckles shifts, lower back pain etc …
In other words, I feel like I got hit by a truck somedays, others I don’t feel any pain. I work with my hands for 30 minutes and I get pains up the sides and “flaming” feeling in the muscles of the hands. Did the “arthritis” tests and according to the doctors, they were negative.
krill can help ?
Hi Shaun–
It has worked for many others. Take a look at the rest of the comments to this post and others on krill. I would take the curcumin along with it.
It won’t work overnight; it takes a couple of weeks of taking the regimen, but once it kicks in, it works pretty well for most.
Keep me posted.
Cheers–
MRE
Thanks for this very informative posting on NKO. I’m interested in krill oil primarily for its heart health effects and was most intrigued by your statement in the posting that “A number of studies have shown that krill oil is tremendously effective in reducing LDL-cholesterol, raising HDL-cholesterol, and lowering blood sugar.” But later, in response to a comment by someone whose experience did not bear this out, you said, “I would never recommend krill oil for its cholesterol altering properties . . . I don’t really care what it does to cholesterol levels because I don’t believe that cholesterol levels mean squat.”
I’m convinced that blood lipid particle profiles are meaningful for people with CHD and anything that does increase HDL to the extent claimed in the one study I’ve found that was sponsored by Neptune would be a remarkable product. Unfortunately, I can’t find any study other than the one study they sponsored. I’m surprised that there has been no further study of these properties of krill oil (especially given all the studies on fish oil, which also cannot be patented), and am wondering if there are in fact “numerous” studies showing the cholesterol effects or is there just the one?
Hi Warren–
You wrote:
I’m just as convinced that it doesn’t matter. And since I don’t think it really matters I don’t spend a lot of time searching for papers showing that this compound or that reduces cholesterol.
You have sort of caught me out on the krill oil papers. I wrote that I had seen numerous papers showing that krill oil reduced cholesterol, raised HDL-cholesterol, etc, but I really haven’t as far as krill oil specifically is concerned. Because of its phospholipid structure, krill oil is kind of a supercharged fish oil (i.e., it has the same fats as fish oil but structured in such a way as to make absorption much better giving much more bang for the specific fat buck), so I was considering papers I had read showing the advantages of fish oil as being also applicable to krill oil.
I don’t know if you’ve seen this paper (pdf file) or not, the krill oil was provided by Neptume Technologies, but the study itself was done at McGill University, a prestigious Canadian university.
Cheers–
MRE
Thanks for your feedback.
When I say that I am convinced that blood lipid profiles matter, I am not talking about total cholesterol levels, or even the interpolated LDL number, but rather, some of the more specific measures, such as small, dense LDL (which is pretty widely believed to cause artery damage), high triglycerides, and low HDL (particularly large particle HDL), as well as LpA. I agree with what you stated in a recent post:
“If any components of the whole constellation of lipids do end up being involved in the development of heart disease, they will be triglycerides, HDL (the so-called ‘good’ cholesterol), and small dense LDL particles. Ideally, you want to have a lot of HDL, low triglyceride levels, and low levels of small, dense LDL particles. How does one achieve that? Easy. With a good quality whole-food low-carb diet. Restricting carbs decreases triglyceride levels, increasing fat increases HDL levels, and at least a dozen studies have shown that switching to a low-carb diet reduces the levels of small, dense LDL particles.”
If krill really has the incredible impact on HDL that the McGill University study showed, that could be pretty exciting. I’ll probably try it and see whether it helps raise my HDL levels.
Hi Warren–
Keep me posted. I’m eager to learn your results.
Cheers–
MRE
Hello Dr.Eades…I have read this particular subject (on here) with much enthusiasm, since I just ordered the oil and wanted to know more about krill oil….I also have been reading about a French dermatologist that has been researching what he calls a “marine lecithin” for the benefit of people with psoriasis! In reading his literature on line and various articles on the web it sounds as though krill oil and the “marine lecithin” are the same!?
http://www.psoriacalm.com/engl/
this quote stuck out for me implying some people lack an enzyme in the liver which may bring on the disease of psoriasis? because of the lack of lecithin?
“So without making it a medicine, we can treat psoriasis simply by compensating what might simply be a disease due to the lack of lecithin induced by an enzymatic deficit of the liver.”
Hi Sally–
Yes, krill oil and marine lecithin are the same.
I’m not sure I agree with the ’science’ as related to the causes and ‘cures’ for psoriasis in the link you included. But if krill oil works to reduce the symptoms, who cares what the underlying mechanism is?
Keep me posted if you try it.
Cheers–
MRE
I’ve purchased my first bottle of NKO Krill oil, and will begin taking it soon. Presently I’ve been taking fish oil and read in a magazine by the name of Radius, that fish oil can cause gastinal/intestinal problems due to it turning rancid in the system. I researched the info read in Radius but was unable to find it written anywhere else, unfortunately, I read the magazine in a fall avoidance office while waiting for my Dad so can’t pick up the book and find the origin. Have you ever heard of this problem with fish oil? Also have you heard if Krill can help the elderly brain function?
Thanks in advance, It was interesting to read all the posts.
Hi Bill–
You don’t have to worry about the fish oil turning rancid in your body; you have to worry about the fish oil turning rancid before it gets in your body. A misconception has arisen about fish oil because a lot of people have fishy burps after taking it. The reason is that some people have a little difficulty in absorbing it. The same is not true of krill oil due to its different structure. It contains the same long-chain polyunsaturated fats as fish oil does, it’s just that their hooked up differently in a way that virtually everyone can absorb better. So you get the same oils without the burping.
Cheers–
MRE
Thanks for the quick reply. The last bottle of fish oil caps I bought had fairly firm caps and at the time I thought nothing of it, but through your posts I see that I should have been concerned and possibly I could have taken some fish oil that is not so new, so what would be symptoms of rancid fish oil? Since reading your posts, I have discontinued use of these caps. Lastly one question I asked at the end of my last post was: Would Krill oil help the elderly in brain function in any way?
Hi Bill–
There aren’t really any symptoms from taking rancid fish oil. It would gobble up some of your endogenous antioxidant capacity to deal with it, but you wouldn’t notice this as a symptom.
Yes, krill oil will definitely help an aging brain. It helps mine a lot.
Cheers–
MRE
Would krill oil be contraindicated in people with shellfish allergy?
thank you
Typically not. Many people with shellfish allergies seem to be able to tolerate krill oil okay, but I would be careful and not overdo it to start just to be on the safe side.
hello
no krill oil is not the same that marine lecithin..
is not the same composition of phospholipid
the marine lecithin is a pure lecithin; is not a fish oil and not a krill oil
http://www.psoriacalm.com/engl/
I am taking Propylthiourac presently for a thyroid “hot” nodule, will Krill oil interact with this medication, I tried researching on the web but could find much information.
Thank you for your help.
Hi Metta–
I can’t imagine why it would interact, but you should check with your physician to make sure.
Cheers–
MRE
Hi Michael,
I have had trouble with memory, concentration, and emotional blunting after taking an antidepressant. In your experience does Krill Oil help with these symptoms?
Hi Joseph–
I’ve never used krill oil for these specific symptoms. I can’t see how it could make them any worse. It’s probably worth giving a try.
Keep me posted.
Cheers–
MRE
A message for the Vanessa who posted a comment about the difference between NKO and NSI krill oil. I wrote an answer, but lost my internet connection as I was posting the answer and couldn’t recover the message.
I don’t know that answer to your question. I looked up NSI krill oil online, and all I could find was a ton of people selling NSI. I suspect that it is pretty much the same stuff but I don’t know for sure. I can’t check it out until I get back from this trip. I will check it out when I get home.
Cheers–
MRE
Dear Doctor,
i am having panic attack and stress related symptoms over the past years and have gotten ups and down with the feeling. I don’ feel as good as i used to. Do you think is it a good try to take krill oil for my anxiety symmptoms. I need your suggestion please
I don’t think krill oil would hurt anything, but you must talk it over with your own physician.
MRE
Would you tell me if krill oil or fish oil are beneficial to the mood and depression stuffs or anxiety. I have my friend who is taking fish oil since 10 days. Also would you tell me how long it takes to kick in its effect?
Your comments are appreciated
thank you
Hi Mike–
There are some reports that krill oil has positive effects in terms of mood elevation. Like all natural substances, it takes a while to take effect. I would give it several weeks.
Cheers–
MRE
Dear Doctor!
My 28 years old daughter has an autoimmune disease from her childhood.Five years ago she was diagnosed also from schizophrenia.Every day she takes 6 caps. of pure EPA. Have you any information does krill oil could help in schizophrenia?
Thank you
Hi Irena–
There is much literature out there on omega-3 oils and mental health. I haven’t seen anything specific about schizophrenia and krill oil, but since krill oil is a highly absorbable, potent source of omega-3 fats, I certainly don’t think it would hurt to give it a try under your daughter’s physicians care.
Best–
MRE
I understand that you don’t believe in the significance of cholesterol numbers, but many (in fact, most) physicians and researchers do. Was wondering if ANY reader of this blog has actually had ANY increase in HDL or decrease in LDL or TC from using Krill oil. It did nothing for me personally, I’m interested in knowing if others have had results.
I’ll throw it out to the crowd.
Hello to everybody. My name is Mike and i’m from Belgium (sorry my english is not very good) and i want to post some questions and a message. A few days ago i bought my first krill oil. It has the smell of fishfood and the smell is not bad at all. When i bite into one and chew it, it taste like a nutral oil. It doesn’t has a bad taste.
Questions:
1. Can i suppose now that my krill oil is ok?
2. What is the tast of rancid krill oil?
A friend of my had a total cholesterol of 300 before he used krill oil. After six months of krill oil it went down to 189.
Hi Mike–
Sounds to me like your krill oil is okay.
Rancid krill oil tastes like rotten fish. You will know it if it is rancid.
Let me know how you do with the krill oil.
Best–
MRE
I forgot to mention that the MFG date of my krill oil was march 2007 and BBE march 2009.
It’s fine. Take it.
Hello,
My krill oil smells like fish and it has the same taste. It tastes like fish, i do not like the taste. But i’m not sure if it is rotten fish. My oil doesn’t tastes nutral. The BBE is feb2009. Dr. Mike do you think that my oil is okay?
Hi Sandra–
It’s probably fine. Krill oil does have a little fishier taste and smell than does fish oil itself. Since yours is in date, I would worry about it.
Cheers–
MRE
Is it dangerous when you take rancid krill oil? And what is the normal taste of krill oil ( a taste of fish?)?
I doubt that it’s seriously dangerous, but it probably doesn’t do you a lot of good. The normal taste of fish oil is kind of fishy.
Cheers–
MRE
I have read in the medical supplies of dr. Mike that rancid fish oil convert to harmful oxidized fats and that it is necessary to take vitamin E to neutralise the lipid peroxides.
But what about krill oil, krill oil has a lot of neutral antioxidants, is it necessary to take vitamin E with the krill oil? And if it is necessary how much do you have to take? Is 30mg/day enough?
Hi John–
The many antioxidants contained in krill oil is one of its major virtues. I don’t think it requires any additional vitamin E, but it probably won’t hurt if you take a little extra.
Cheers–
MRE
Dear Dr. Mike
My Cholesterol has gone down with one a day Lescol 80 xl. Moved recently. New GP doctor has suggest adding fish oil. I do have occasional (not sustained) rapid heartbeat….going for stress test end of Sept.
Upon looking into fish oil I came upon something that said do not take or take only with Dr supervision. I will discuss further with my Cardiologist. I did not see this comment when I looked into Krill oil. Would you know if the lack of this comment was possibly do to the fact that Krill has not been studied in as much depth of fish oil, or is there something different about Krill that would not cause any concerns.
Thank you for any input you might have about this.
Hi Marilyn–
It’s a good idea to check with your cardiologist about the krill oil as well. It’s always good to keep your doctor in the loop about all supplements as well as prescription drugs. Krill oil doesn’t have many of the effects of fish oil because the doses needed to achieve a desire effect are so much lower. The reason is that the omega-3 fats in krill oil (which are the same ones in fish oil) are hooked up differently so that they absorb much, much better. So, in essence, you get the fish oil effect without so much fish oil.
Hope this helps.
MRE
Here are my results after one week krill oil.
Before krill oil:
Total Cholesterol: 250
LDL: 160
Hdl: 80
Tri: 50
Ferritin: 485
After one week krill oil:
TC: 206
LDL:126
HDL:72
Tri:38
Ferritin: 408
Not too shabby. I’d like to see the same labs after 6 weeks on krill oil. Some of the changes - although in the right direction - could have simply been within the limits of lab variation.
Cheers–
MRE
Dear dr. Mike,
You wrote “Some of the changes - although in the right direction - could have simply been within the limits of lab variation.” Is it possible to explain this a little? Do you want to say that my results are not exact?
Thank you.
If you had blood drawn and sent half the sample to the lab for analysis, then sent the other half for the same analysis, you would get slightly different readings for each even though both are the same blood sample. The techniques used by commercial labs aren’t that precise, so there is some variation. If you get a cholesterol reading one time of 205 mg/dL and the next time it’s 197 mg/dL it doesn’t necessarily mean that your cholesterol has fallen. It could just be within the limits of normal lab variation.
Hope this explains it.
Cheers–
MRE
Something i forgot to mention, the bloodanalysis were done in the same lab.
Doesn’t matter. The variation is in the imperfection of the laboratory process.
Hi Dr. (2) quick questions:
My wife is 6 months pregnant, and was curious if krill oil is ok, or if you ever heard of any adverse effects of krill oil on pregnancy. (Were trying to make our baby smart is possible, while helping with some of her back pain)…
2) Do you know of any krill oil in liquid form? If not, do you just open the gel caps and take it that way? Any recommendations to kill the smell/taste?
Thanks Doc!
Cheers -
KCL
Hi Ken–
Krill oil should be fine during pregnancy, but your wife should let her doc know what she’s taking. One of the fats in krill oil (and fish oil), DHA, is one of the two fats essential for the developing fetal brain. The other is arachadonic acid, so I always tell my pregnant patients to eat red meat to get plenty of this essential fatty acid.
I don’t know of any krill oil that comes in liquid form. Maybe other readers have found a source and can let us both know. You can open the caps and take it that way, but if it’s in date, I would just take the caps.
Best–
MRE
Dear Sir,
I really enjoyed reading all the questions and Answers, regarding Krill Oil.
I could never imagine NOT supplying my body with Krill Oil. I am 35 years old and have lived a healthy active life, I love life and intend keeping active and healthy as long as possible. Most readers will think at 35 years old, you should be well and active; However, I have 4 children and 1 on the way, I have a stressfull Job within the Oil and Gas Industry as well as set 6 World Records in Endurance Motorcycling.
I have been very lucky with illnesses over the last 35 years, suffering only broken bones and fractures due to an active Sports life.
I do not profit from Sales or Marketing of Krill products, However I wish I did, because taking Krill Oil has without a shadow of doubt shown me fantastic results:
1: I have not been sick with flu or a common cold for over 2 years.
2:My skin is constantly clear.
3:No aches or pains in muscles or joints.
4:Dont have headaches.
5:Never moody.
6:Loads of energy.
7:Great Sex life.
8:Always posotive.
I could list 50 more things, but you get the point.I would highly recommend Krill oil to anyone thinking of trying the product. Like me you will see great results.
Best Wishes,
Nick.
Hi Nick–
Thanks for the krill oil testimonial. I’m glad it’s worked so well for you. It works pretty well for me, too.
Cheers–
MRE
Ok, thanks for letting us know. I’ve read so many good things about krill oil, and was hoping it was ok. Also, Doc do you recommend a particular brand? Which do you take? Is there a web-site? Dr. Mercola is where I first learned of Krill Oil, and then I found this site.
He sells Antarctic Krill oil, but I’ve seen others cheaper. (He warns against cheaper products)
Ken
Hi Ken–
I use krill oil that comes from Neptune Technologies. I’ve never used any other brand, so I can’t really comment on anything else.
Cheers–
MRE
Great blog about Krill Oil, i just learned about it in the past few weeks. Thank you for all the info. You said you continue to take fish oil as well, could you tell me how you split each up during the day? Do you take them together, one of each twice a day, something like that?
with food, in between meals, before bed…?
Thanks
Hi Rob–
I take them all together once a day and at different times. If I’m going out to play golf, I usually take them before I leave. If I’m not playing golf I’ll take them at bedtime.
Cheers–
MRE
I keep my krill oil on a temperature between 14 - 16 degrees. But when i bite on it, the oil is no longer liquid for 100%. Is it possible that the oil has coagulated a little?
The highly unsaturated fats in krill oil are like any other fats - they become less fluid as their temperature drops. Krill oil at 14-16 degrees will indeed become a little more solid, but it’s nothing to worry about.
Cheers–
MRE
I just recieved my first order of Anartic Krill Oil from Dr. Mercola’s web site.
Has anyone found this Krill Oil to be a good choice?
In response to Tom, all Neptune Krill Oil comes from the same lab (Neptune Labs in Canada). Dr. Eades here says to buy the one that you get the best deal on, because NKO is NKO regardless who the reseller is.
It’s a bit amusing how Mercola goes on to say to not waste your money on other products because his product is extracted from the real “Neptune Krill.” There is no such thing as “Neptune Krill.”
Aggressive marketing aside, I did notice a good sale price a few weeks ago, but I didn’t act on it.
First off, great info on Krill. I’m 63 and been taking fish oil from Trader Joe’s for 15 years. I started taking it for the purpose of helping to lower my cholesterol. Helped a little but I keep on taking it. Now thinking of adding Krill for same reason and additionally for help with my tendinitis in my elbow (golf).
Two questions: Why do you not believe in lower cholesterol levels as a way to lower chances of heart attack since the entire planet seems to believe that lowering your cholesterol will keep you from a heart attack for a longer period of time and will Krill help relieve pain from tendinitis?
Thanks for your time.
Hi Rit–
Enter the term lipid hypothesis into the search function on this blog and you’ll learn why I feel the way I do about cholesterol. I do think krill oil will help with tendinitis. Especially if you use it like I do with 800 mg curcumin.
Cheers–
MRE
Dr. Mike,
i am a 41 year old woman who was quite active the first 2/3 of my life. I played up to 5 hours of tennis a day. However, I had several car accidents which resulted in neck and back injuries and I recently had a microdiscectomy/laminectomy at L4/L5. I still have a significant amount of aches and pains and pretty significant PMS symptoms. I am still trying to conceive a child, which is a challenge at my age. I take synthroid and need to refill my prenatal vitamins. I have just started researching the Krill Oil and am looking at trying it to see if it will help my aches and pains and PMS. Are there any other supplements or vitamins you recommend I take in addition to the Krill Oil. How much Krill Oil should I take and can you provide a link for the Neptune technologies brand you use? Also can you tell me more about the circumin and if I should add that as well. I’m not a big fan of taking medication or supplements so I want to keep my supplements to a minimum. I guess you could say I’m trying to get the most bang for my buck. Plus, I have always had trouble swallowing pills so the fewer I have to take the better. Thanks doc.
Hi Eileen–
Here is an early post I wrote on krill oil that should answer most of your questions. There are other suppliers of krill oil now besides Neptune Technologies. Any of the commercially available brands should be fine.
If the krill oil doesn’t completely do the job, you might think of adding circumen. It helped me. I take about 800 mg per day.
Best–
MRE
Dr. Mike,
Can you tell me anything about Zyflamend softgels by New Chapter in treating inflammation and joint pain. I was wondering if I should try this product or just use the Curcumin you described. I found the NKO fish oil at whole foods and the zyflmend. Both have warnings on them if you are trying to conceive or if pregnant. Would you let your wife take any of these supplements if she were trying to conceive or was pregnant. You input is appreciated. Thanks.
Hi Eileen–
I’m a little bit familiar with the Zyflamend softgels. In my opinion the krill oil/curcumin is a better option. As to the pregnancy warnings…if my wife were pregnant I probably wouldn’t have her take the Zyflamend, mainly because I don’t know how a number of the ingredients would affect the fetus. I probably would have her take some krill oil, however. But, that doesn’t mean I’m recommending it to you. You need to check with your own physician.
Cheers–
MRE
I got sold on Marine Plankton. Is this any good? I add a few drops to pure water and drink it down twice a day. I am getting so confused about the omega’s plant or fish??? which is better? would krill oil be better? thanks.
In my opinion the krill oil would be much better.
Best–
MRE
Dr. Mike,
I have been taking Krill oil since March. One of the things that endorsed it for me is when I went in to have one of my 3 dental cleanings per year, my hygenist asked if I was doing something different as the tissue in one problem area had improved. Nothing has ever effected my gum tissue so I had to attribute it to the Krill. I’ve also noticed an improvement in the “pre-beats” I occasionally get in my heart. My questions are: why is it recommended on the bottle to take it with the morning meal-any particular reason you know of and do you think it matters? 2) I’ve been taking one daily(500mg) but am thinking of upping it to 2 a day for 1000mg. I weigh about 165#s-do you think this makes sense?
Thanks, Judy
Hi Judy–
I don’t think it much matters when you take it. And I don’t think it would be a problem to up your dose to two per day if you think that will help with symptoms you may be having. If you’re not having any problems, though, I might stick with just the one.
Cheers–
MRE
Dear Dr. Mike,
I have been recommending omega-3 (EPA/DHA) to my patients for years for both HDL/LDL ratio management and joint pain management with great success. Of course the fishy reflux is a commonly reported side-effect which sounds easily remedied with Krill Oil and taking supplements with meals.
I’ve recently had a couple of hunters relate they they are concerned about the increase in body odor from taking fish oil. Will Krill Oil potentially diminish this effect as well?
~Dr.K
Hi Dr. K–
The krill oil will definitely get rid of the fishy reflux and should get rid of the body odor as well.
Keep me posted.
Best–
MRE
Dear Dr. Mike,
I have two questions? I’m 38yr old and in good health. I’m taking krill oil during five months now. And i feel good. Should i take the krill oil every day (1cap=500mg) for the rest of my life or is it better to take a cure (3 months krill and then 3months nothing…)?
Is it true that krill oil reduces oxidative stress?
Thanks, Mike.
I take krill oil daily and have been for a while because I don’t eat a lot of fish. It will not hurt you to take a krill oil softgel daily.
Does krill oil reduce oxidative stress? A difficult question. The omega-3 oils in krill oil actually increase oxidative stress because of their multiple double bonds. But the antioxidants in the krill oil reduce oxidative stress. And the omega-3 fats can ultimately be converted to anti-inflammatory substances. So, it is a mixed answer, I guess. Overall, I would say that krill oil reduces inflammation.
Best–
MRE
Thanks for the answer dr. Mike.
But increase the omega-3 oils (from fish or fishoil) always the oxidative stress or is it only the omega-3 oils in krill oil?
And if omega-3 oils in fish or krill oil increase oxidative stress, is this not a problem for our health, because oxidative stress is not something good, i suppose?
Thanks, Mike.
The increase in oxidative stress is probably a little greater with the fish oil for a couple of reasons. First, you have to take more of them to get the same effect provided with smaller doses of krill. Second, the fish oil doesn’t contain the antioxidants that the krill oil does.
Cheers–
MRE
hey doc…
just wondering…. i was at a convention about a year ago with barry sears (zone diet) and he recommended that we simply ‘guzzle’ fish oil to help with what he termed ’silent inflammation’ in the body. What is your take on this and how krill oil might affect this silent inflammation in comparison to regular fish oil…
also, how is it you came to recommend circumin over say a ggt (garlic, ginge, tumeric) therapy and why?
I think krill oil would help fight it better because it’s better absorbed and you don’t have to take so much of it. The fatty acids in fish oil and krill oil are easily oxidized, and if you ‘guzzle’ it you are asking your body to use resources to stabilize this oil that could be better used in fighting inflammation other places. A little fish oil is good - too much can be problematic.
I recommend circumin because it has worked well for me and for a number of my patients who haven’t had the same success with garlic and ginger. Circumin is the active ingredient in tumeric.
Cheers–
MRE
INFORMATION TO ALL: Costco has just announced they will have Krill Oil available in their
vitamin aisles beginning in January. They say in their magazine “What is small, red and 3X more powerful than fish oil” for supporting cardiovascular health. It shows a photo of a much smaller caplet than the fish oil we see. This was in their December 2007 Costco Connection magazine. Volume 22 * Number 12. Hopefully a better price and perhaps fresher product due to their huge volume.
A QUESTION: I just had a 64 SLICE heart scan showing some blockage. My rating was in the mid 500’s on the scale. Then I scheduled and had a nuclear stress EKG And nuclear scan. They advise me that the blockage I have in 2 arteries isn’t bad and I should just be careful about diet and get some regular exercise, lose some weight, the normal stuff. The cardiologist told me it is not reversible. Is that true. Can I hope for some reversal or, of course, just protect what I have?
You should discuss this with your physician. I don’t know anything about your specific case. I do know that in studies it has been shown that some blockage can be reversed.
Best–
MRE
Just found your blog info on krill oil, and wanted to add my thanks to the others. Our postal clerk suggested I look into krill oil for arthritis. I have had problems with degenerative osteoarthritis in my spine and both hands. This sounds like something that perhaps may help the pain and soreness that goes with it! Worth a try.
Thanks, Sherrey
I compared the Krill oil from Costco with Swanson Vitamins and Swansons has the better value. http://www.costco.com/Browse/Product.aspx?Prodid=11236660&whse=BC&Ne=4000000&eCat=BC|589|770&N=4001268&Mo=146&pos=7&No=8&Nr=P_CatalogName:BC&cat=770&Ns=P_Price|1||P_SignDesc1&lang=en-US&Sp=C&ec=BC-EC3418-Cat589&topnav=
(90) 300 mg softgels for 18.99.
versus http://www.swansonvitamins.com/webapp/wcs/stores/servlet/ProductDisplay?storeId=10001&langId=-1&catalogId=10051&SourceCode=INT999&productId=16379&R=7090
(90) 500 mg softgels for 18.49.
I have been purchasing my supplements from Swanson vitamins for the past year and I am very happy with them.
Can you eat too much omega-3? I’ve recently discovered your blog and am reading it so much my eyes hurt! It has propelled me into eating real, whole, foods and fish (and meats) w