Given its abundant medicinal properties, it may soon be considered fundamental to the survival of all species. Krill is best known as a significant source of omega 3 fatty acids EPA and DHA. These 20 and 22 carbon molecules are difficult to convert from plant based ALA within the body and external sources until now have been primarily limited to fish oils.

One concern with fish oil such as salmon or tuna is that we do not have an unlimited supply and at some point we will exhaust our resources. Krill, being so important to the Antarctic eco-system is extremely well regulated to ensure it is harvested sustainably.

A "Clean" Omega-3
As an organism low on the food chain, Krill does not collect pollutants from the ocean like larger organisms will. While these pollutants are filtered out during the manufacturing process of supplements like fish oil and salmon oil, with Krill they are not there to begin with. In addition, by taking Krill oil, we consume an Omega-3 supplement without putting fish stocks in jeopardy.

Omega 3 Plus Phospholipids
The sustainability of krill is not the only factor that sets it apart from fish oil. Yes, they are both high in animal based Omega 3 fatty acids, but Krill also contains phospholipids. Attached the the omega 3 fatty acids, these phospholipids are said to significantly increase the potency or bio-availability of both EPA and DHA, meaning we don't need to take us much of the oil to get the same benefit. In addition, phospholipids support healthy brain function and optimal levels of acetylcholine, a neurotransmitter needed by the brain for the transmission of information.

Astaxanthin
Another proposed benefit to Krill oil is its high Astaxanthin content. Astaxanthin is a potent antioxidant which allows krill oil to be much more stable than typical fish oil, preventing harmful oxidization both of the oil and within our bodies. Astaxanthin is one of few antioxidants that crosses the blood brain barrier and therefore is particularly useful for protecting the eyes and central nervous system. Astaxanthin as a carotenoid, is also a pigment, which is also present in lesser amounts in salmon, shrimp, and lobster and is the reason why each of this is a pinky-orange colour.

Heart Health
Krill oil is used for the treatment and prevention of a wide array of disease processes. Similar to other omega 3 fatty acids, research has demonstrated beneficial cholesterol lowering effects. Not only has Krill oil been shown to reduce LDL, the "bad cholesterol" as well as triglycerides, being high in EPA and DHA, it has also been shown to increase HDL cholesterol. Research shows that promoting high levels of HDL cholesterol, or the "good cholesterol", has just as many implications in preventing atherosclerosis and heart disease as lowering the LDL form. It has also been studied in the treatment of autoimmune disease, like rheumatoid arthritis, as well as various disorders of the central nervous system. Krill oil has also been shown effective in relieving symptoms of PMS.

Neptune Krill Oil, or NKO
Nearly all krill oil available as a supplement is sourced from the Neptune Krill Oil brand, which is the company that pioneered the research on Krill oil. Containing standardized levels of EPA, DHA, Phospholipids and Astaxanthin, the NKO type Krill Oil has abundant clinical research supporting its effectiveness, purity and quality.

Krill oil does have mild blood thinning effects, so persons on anti-coagulant medications or taking herbs known to increase the risk of bleeding need to use with caution. Krill is contraindicated in individuals with fish allergy. There is little information on the safety of krill oil during pregnancy and lactation, so for now it is recommended that these individuals avoid use.

Krill oil can be found in capsule, soft gel or liquid form. The recommended dosage varies from 300 mg to 2 g/day.