Fish oil verses krill oil
10 Mar 2014
When it comes to the healthy omega-3 fatty acids, both krill oil and fish oil supply the benefit. But there are differences between the two kinds of supplements.
Fish oil
Fish oil is derived from the fatty layers of cold-water fish and contains eicosapentanoic acid (EPA) and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA), both omega-3 fatty acids essential to human health.
While experts say there is a market for both fish and krill oil in the Australian market, fish oil has the backing of many years of scientific research when it comes to the benefits of the supplement.
The National Heart Foundation of Australia has recognised the impact of fish oil on cardiovascular health and evidence has shown that those who consume more cold-water fish – either through diet or supplements – have a lower incidence of cancer and chronic illnesses.
Other health benefits of fish oil include:
- Reduced levels of cholesterol and blood pressure
- Treatment of heart disease
- Helping those suffering with rheumatoid arthritis get over morning stiffness quicker
- Kidney problems if taken long term
However, with the good always comes the bad. Reports out of the United States have linked too much omega-3 fatty acids, particularly those from fish oil, with an increased risk of prostate cancer.
Krill oil
Like fish oil, krill oil contains EPA and DHA. The acids are derived from krill, a bottom-of-the-food-chain crustacean that lives around the Antarctic.
The main difference between the two supplements is that the omega-3s in krill oil are packaged different from those in fish oil. It’s believed that the way the acids are packed in krill oil makes it easier for the body to absorb.
Plus, krill oil contains choline, another nutrient and antioxidant.
Like fish oil, krill oil is used to help with high blood pressure, cancer, depression and high cholesterol. It also has benefits when it comes to brain health.
However, there haven’t been as many studies when it comes to the benefits of krill oil, so some experts are hesitant to state exactly how it helps the body.
One of the big drawcards when it comes to krill oil rather than fish oil is that krill oil supplements tend to be much more potent. You’ll need to take about 50 per cent less krill oil than its fish counterpart.
So which one?
When it comes to which is better – fish or krill – more research is definitely needed. If you have a diet high in fatty, low-mercury fish, chances are you’re getting enough DHA and EPA.
Remember to consult your doctor if you plan to take a supplement. Any supplement may interact with some medication so it’s always best to discuss your plans with your GP.
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