Azantis Premium Krill Oil Blend
Also known as: Krill oil, Antarctic krill oil, Marine phospholipid oil, Euphausia superba oil
Overview
Krill oil is extracted from Antarctic krill (*Euphausia superba*), a small crustacean found in the Antarctic Ocean. It is a rich source of omega-3 fatty acids, primarily eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA), which are bound to phospholipids, enhancing their bioavailability. Krill oil also contains astaxanthin, a potent antioxidant that gives it a distinctive red color. It is primarily used as a dietary supplement for lipid management, joint health, and its potential anti-inflammatory effects. Research suggests that krill oil may help reduce LDL cholesterol and triglycerides, improve joint pain and stiffness, and offer general anti-inflammatory benefits. While several randomized controlled trials (RCTs) and systematic reviews support these uses, the evidence is not always definitive due to limited sample sizes in some studies. Krill oil is available mainly in softgel capsules.
Benefits
Krill oil offers several potential health benefits, primarily related to lipid management and joint health. Systematic reviews and meta-analyses indicate that krill oil can modestly reduce LDL cholesterol and triglycerides in adults with hyperlipidemia. Studies have shown reductions of 5-15% in triglycerides. RCTs have also demonstrated modest improvements in knee pain, stiffness, and physical function in adults with mild to moderate osteoarthritis. These improvements are typically small to moderate in effect size but statistically significant. Additionally, preclinical and limited clinical evidence suggests krill oil may have anti-inflammatory effects, potentially benefiting intestinal inflammation. The lipid-modifying effects are generally observed after 2–12 weeks of supplementation, while joint benefits may appear after 4–12 weeks.
How it works
Krill oil's benefits stem from its unique composition of phospholipid-bound omega-3 fatty acids (EPA and DHA) and astaxanthin. The omega-3 fatty acids modulate lipid metabolism by reducing hepatic triglyceride production and increasing LDL receptor activity. They also exert anti-inflammatory effects by inhibiting pro-inflammatory cytokines. Astaxanthin contributes to these anti-inflammatory effects by reducing oxidative stress. These components interact with various body systems, including the cardiovascular system by reducing atherogenic lipids and potentially improving endothelial function, and the musculoskeletal system by reducing joint inflammation and pain. Molecular targets include PPAR-α, SREBP, LDL receptors in lipid metabolism, and NF-κB, COX-2, IL-6, and TNF-α in inflammation.
Side effects
Krill oil is generally well-tolerated and considered safe for most adults. The most common side effects, occurring in more than 5% of users, are mild gastrointestinal symptoms such as nausea and diarrhea. Uncommon side effects, affecting 1-5% of users, include a fishy aftertaste and mild allergic reactions. Rare side effects, seen in less than 1% of users, may include severe allergic reactions and a theoretical risk of bleeding, particularly at high doses. Krill oil may increase the risk of bleeding when taken with anticoagulants, so concurrent use should be monitored. It is contraindicated for individuals with allergies to crustaceans or seafood. Pregnant or lactating women should use krill oil with caution due to insufficient safety data, and it is not recommended for children due to a lack of safety data.
Dosage
The minimum effective dose of krill oil is typically 1–2 grams daily, providing approximately 150–300 mg of EPA and DHA. Optimal dosage ranges for lipid management and joint health are between 1–3 grams daily. While doses up to 4 grams daily appear safe in short-term studies, long-term safety data are limited. Krill oil can be taken with or without food, as there is no strong evidence to suggest that timing affects its efficacy. Softgel capsules are the standard form, and it is advisable to choose products that have been third-party tested for purity. The phospholipid-bound omega-3s in krill oil may enhance absorption compared to triglyceride-bound omega-3s found in fish oil. No specific cofactors are required, but a balanced diet is recommended for overall health.
FAQs
Is krill oil safe?
Krill oil is generally safe for most adults. Monitor for gastrointestinal symptoms or allergic reactions. Individuals on anticoagulants or with seafood allergies should exercise caution.
When should I take krill oil?
Krill oil can be taken at any time of day, with or without food. There is no strong evidence to suggest that specific timing affects its efficacy.
How long does it take to see results from krill oil?
Modest improvements in lipid levels and joint symptoms may be observed over weeks to months of consistent use. Individual results may vary.
Is krill oil a cure-all?
Krill oil is not a cure-all. Its benefits are modest and may not be noticeable for everyone. It should be used as part of a comprehensive approach to health.
What are the benefits of phospholipid-bound omega-3s?
Phospholipid-bound omega-3s, like those found in krill oil, may offer enhanced absorption compared to triglyceride-bound omega-3s found in fish oil.
Research Sources
- https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28371906/ – This systematic review and meta-analysis examined the effects of krill oil on blood lipids. The analysis included multiple RCTs and found that krill oil modestly reduces LDL cholesterol and triglycerides, although the effect sizes were modest but statistically significant. The authors noted that more research is needed for definitive conclusions due to heterogeneity in study designs and dosages.
- https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC9437987/ – This randomized controlled trial investigated the effects of krill oil on adults with mild to moderate knee osteoarthritis. The study found that krill oil was safe and modestly improved knee pain, stiffness, and physical function compared to a placebo group. The authors concluded that krill oil could be a beneficial supplement for managing osteoarthritis symptoms, although the effect sizes were modest.
- https://www.mdpi.com/2218-273X/14/4/447 – This article discusses the potential anti-inflammatory effects of krill oil. Preclinical and limited clinical evidence suggests potential benefits for intestinal inflammation and general anti-inflammatory activity. The study highlights the role of omega-3s and astaxanthin in inhibiting pro-inflammatory cytokines and oxidative stress.
- https://www.webmd.com/vitamins/ai/ingredientmono-1172/krill-oil – WebMD provides general information about krill oil, including its uses, potential benefits, and safety considerations. It notes that krill oil is generally well-tolerated and safe for most adults, with mild gastrointestinal symptoms being the most common side effect. The article also mentions potential drug interactions and contraindications.
- https://magistralbr.caldic.com/storage/product-files/421700441.pdf – This document presents a clinical study comparing krill oil to fish oil. The study reported that krill oil reduced total cholesterol by 13–18%, LDL by 32–40%, and increased HDL by 42–60%. However, it's important to note that these effect sizes are unusually large compared to other studies, and the study has not been independently verified, suggesting potential bias.