Krill Oil vs Fish Oil: Which Is Better for Your Health
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Misbah Wasi

Functional Nutrition Specialist, Scientific & Regulatory Advisor for Health Supplements

Misbah Wasi is a seasoned professional in the field of Nutrition Science and Food Regulation for over 15 years. Currently, she is lendin her expertise in the area of Health Supplements and Nutraceuticals and is an active member of the Standards Review Group (SRG) - Nutraceuticals FSSAI Ms. Wasi is a post-graduate in Food and Nutrition. Certified Lead Food Safety Management Systems Auditor (FSMS, FSSC 22000) and a certified FoSTaC traine for Health Supplements and Nutraceuticals. She is also a Subject Matter Expert for ‘Food Regulations in India’ for IFLR (International Food Laws and Regulations) course at Michigan State University.

Krill Oil Vs. Fish Oil: Which Is Better For Your Health?

In recent years, there has been a growing recognition of the benefits of omega-3 fatty acids. Omega-3 fatty acidsEPA and DHAare required for the proper functioning of our body and they cannot be produced on their own. Omega-3 fatty acids are derived from sources such as fish, krill, algae, nuts, etc. Health and nutrition enthusiasts are looking for hassle-free ways to include these fatty acids in their daily routines. Omega-3 in the form of Krill oil or fish oil provides good quality EPA and DHA. The consumption of theseoils may have beneficial effects on stroke, depression, diabetes mellitus, cancer, Alzheimer's disease and other health conditions.

What is krill oil?


Krill oil, extracted from Antarctic krill, is a rich alternative
 source of omega-3 PUFAs containing a high proportionof eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA)in the form of phospholipids. Omega-3 fatty acids EPA and DHA bound to phospholipids in Krill oil possess higher bioavailability and absorption rates compared with the triglycerides bound to omega-3 PUFAs in fish oil Krill oil may have more potential in treating metabolic syndromes as one of the crucial benefits. It also contains the antioxidant Astaxanthin and Vitamin A and E.

What is fish oil?


Fish oil extracted from fish species such as mackerel, anchovies, salmon, sardines, and tuna. The extracted oil is purified to remove impurities and contaminants. fish oil is rich in long-chain omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids, which mainly consist of EPA and DHA. It is widely distributed in the body such as the heart and brain. fish oil has been shown to impact several risk factors associated with coronary heart disease, brain function, joint health, and others.


Difference Between Krill Oil and fish oil


1. Omega-3 content


Krill oil and fish oil contain omega-3 fatty acids in different forms. Krill oil contains omega-3 fatty acids in the form of phospholipids. fish oil , on the other hand, contains omega-3 fatty acids in the form of triglycerides. fish oil contains a higher amount of EPA & DHA as compared to Krill oil. Although, Krill oil contains phospholipids which are more easily absorbed by the body.

2. Sustainability


Krill oil is obtained from a small, shrimp-like crustacean found in the oceans called krill. However, obtaining Krill oil is less sustainable as krill harvesting on marine ecosystems and the creatures that rely on krill as a food source is a bit questionable practice. fish oil is obtained from varied species of fish. These fishes can be both sustainable and non-sustainable. It is crucial to mindfully opt the fish oil from brands that source their product from sustainable fisheries.


Benefits of krill oil vs. fish oil


Krill oil and fish oil containing omega-3 fatty acids exhibit a wide variety of health benefits. Some of them are mentioned below.


  • Joint Health
  • Fish oil consumption has been shown to reduce the symptoms of the disease as well as the use of non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs in arthritis patients with severe inflammatory jointdisease.

  • Weight Loss
  • Fish and Krill oil intake inhibit weight gain in a high-fat diet. Also, omega-3 fatty acids help to promote a feeling of satiety and reduce appetite.

  • Skin Health
  • Fish and Krill oil can improve skin hydration, increase blood circulation, reduce inflammation associated with skin conditions like eczema, and hence promote healthy skin.

  • Cholesterol control
  • Krill oil and fish oil have the ability to increase the good cholesterol i.e., HDL, and help to remove bad cholesterol i.e., LDL.

  • Increases Energy
  • Omega-3 fatty acid intake may improve physical activity by delaying the onset of muscle soreness and fatigue.

  • Heart Health
  • Fish oil and Krill oil have the ability to reduce triglyceride levels, lower blood pressure, decrease the risk of abnormal heart rhythms, and improve overall cardiovascular function.

  • Brain Health

Omega-3 fatty acid intake improves mood, memory, and problem-solving ability and reduces the risk of depression, stress, anxiety, and age-related neurological diseases.

Krill oil vs fish oil :Which is better?


Krill oil and fish oil both are effective sources of high-quality omega-3 fatty acids and provide a wide range of health benefits. So, the customer should opt for a specific oil on the basis of their personal preferences. This includes dietary needs, allergy concerns, and otherconsiderations. Also, these oils are available in different forms like soft gel capsules, tablets, gummies, flavored oils, etc.



Bottom line


Both kril oil and fish oil beneficial for health . It is important to include omega-3 fatty acids in your daily routine to attain maximum benefits.

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