Research published in Pharmacy & Therapeutics found that a daily dose of 1 to 3 grams of krill oil lowered total cholesterol and triglycerides more effectively than the same dose of regular fish oil. This amount (1 to 3 grams) of krill oil is considered a standard daily dose.
There's strong evidence that omega-3 fatty acids can significantly reduce blood triglyceride levels. There also appears to be a slight improvement in high-density lipoprotein (HDL, or "good") cholesterol, although an increase in levels of low-density lipoprotein (LDL, or "bad") cholesterol also was observed.
Yes, you can take krill oil and fish oil together. However, if you were going to choose one supplement, krill oil may be the optimal choice due to its higher concentration of EPA (the omega 3 that gives krill its bright red pigment) and astaxanthin (a powerful antioxidant that reduces inflammation).
The current publication pools the data from 2 large clinical trials conducted by American and Canadian scientists. The findings show that patients consuming the krill oil experienced a significant reduction in triglycerides levels (12.7% reduction in 26 weeks) and there was no increase in LDL cholesterol.
Krill Oil May Help Your Heart
Past research backs this up. In a randomized control study, 1 to 3 grams of krill oil per day helped reduce the study participants' LDL (“bad”) cholesterol, triglycerides, and blood glucose, while increasing their HDL cholesterol, more so than even fish oil (or, of course, the placebo).
On the flip side of the cholesterol question, though, is whether fish oil can actually raise bad cholesterol. This is an effect that has been noted in some studies, but new research shows that fish oil has no impact on bad cholesterol levels.
Bleeding disorders: Krill oil can slow blood clotting. It might increase the risk of bleeding in people with bleeding disorders. Seafood allergy: Some people who are allergic to seafood might also be allergic to krill oil supplements. Avoid using krill oil or use it cautiously if you have a seafood allergy.
In summary, krill oil phospholipids are well positioned for supporting liver health and ensuring an optimal functioning liver, through its beneficial nutrients omega-3 and choline in the phospholipid form.
Krill oil positively affects fatty acid composition in blood, fat tissue and liver. Krill oil alters oxylipins in fat tissue and liver leading to an anti-inflammatory environment. Krill oil suppresses inflammatory pathways in fat tissue and liver; anti-inflammatory effects appear more pronounced in fat tissue.
Niacin is a B vitamin. Doctors sometimes suggest it for patients with high cholesterol or heart concerns. It increases the level of good cholesterol and reduces triglycerides, another fat that can clog arteries. You can get niacin from foods, especially liver and chicken, or from supplements.
Soluble fiber can reduce the absorption of cholesterol into your bloodstream. Soluble fiber is found in such foods as oatmeal, kidney beans, Brussels sprouts, apples and pears. Add whey protein. Whey protein, which is found in dairy products, may account for many of the health benefits attributed to dairy.
Niacin is a B vitamin that can help lower cholesterol. A person can also take other dietary supplements, such as berberine and fish oil, to help lower cholesterol. However, people should only use these products after speaking with a doctor.
A dose of 1,000 milligrams of krill oil a day could prove useful for lowering total cholesterol and improving triglycerides. A dose of 500 milligrams once a day may help you maintain good cholesterol levels once you achieve them.
Conclusion: Krill oil containing diets were able to reduce cholesterol levels, inhibit plaque development and prevent liver damage. Krill proteins also reduced atherosclerosis development through mechanisms not involving lipid metabolism.
Research shows that krill oil may be effective in reducing total cholesterol and triglycerides. It may also increase HDL (good) cholesterol levels. “We know that high triglycerides increase the risk of heart disease,” says Ilic.
Krill Oil May Improve Heart Health More Than Fish Oil
It found that both fish oil and krill oil improved several heart disease risk factors. However, they also found that krill oil was more effective than fish oil at lowering blood sugar, triglycerides and “bad” LDL cholesterol.
The American Heart Association promotes omega-3s as a preventative against cardiovascular disease. Research has shown that the omega-3s in krill oil help prevent heart attacks and strokes. Studies also show that krill oil helps lower blood pressure and triglyceride levels, which are both risk factors for heart disease.
Because most of the benefits of fish oil are associated with long-term use, you can take it at any time of day. That said, splitting your supplement into two smaller doses in the morning and at night can reduce acid reflux.
CoQ10 is a vitamin-like compound that's clinically demonstrated its ability to support heart health through its effects on cellular energy production. Krill oil has naturally occurring omega-3 essential fatty acids, which are well-known for their vital role in the cardiovascular health.
What is the recommended dosage of krill oil? Like fish oil, the recommended dosage of krill oil is based on the amount of DHA and EPA found in the supplement. Some guidelines recommend a combined daily intake of DHA and EPA between 250 and 500 milligrams (mg) .
To get the full potential from an omega-3 source, krill oil features a natural combination of essential fatty acids, EPA & DHA, with choline and astaxanthin. Filled in small capsules, a combination of krill oil and vitamin D will provide consumers with a comfortable, complete solution.
Expert Analysis. All individuals should aim to consume approximately 2 servings of fatty fish per week as part of a heart-healthy diet. Routine use of non-prescription fish oil is not recommended for primary or secondary prevention of CVD.
OTC fish oil supplements are not better for treating high cholesterol than statins. People can use OTC fish oil supplements to support their general health. However, the FDA have not approved fish oil dietary supplements to treat any specific medical condition.
Successfully maintaining a ratio of 4:1 to 1:1 omega 6 to omega 3 will help lower cholesterol levels and control high blood pressure. How much omega 3 do you need to add? This is under debate and more research is being done. Right now the range experts recommend is from 500-2000 mg/day.