Fish oil alternatives: 7 benefits of Krill oil you must know | Fish Oil Blog

If you are not the fish-eating kind, but still want to enjoy the benefits of fish oil, you may want to try fish oil alternatives. Though this is a blog about fish oil, we strongly feel that we should detail on the benefits and ill-effects of fish oil alternatives too, helping you decide on what is best for you and your health problem. This article explores the benefits of krill oil, a close counterpart of fish oil.

Krill are shrimp-like crustacean creatures about one to six inches in length. Unlike fish, krill lives only in the deep sea and  thrive by eating phytoplankton. Krill is food to many sea beings like penguins, whales, fish and the squids. Krill is taken as food by the Japanese and the Russians. It has become almost a commercial commodity which is used for cultivation of phytoplankton and also for consumption (for its health benefits).

What is special about Krill oil? Krill oil contains docosahexaenoic acid (DHA), eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) omega-3 fatty acids. DHA plays a pivotal role in the development of the brain and eye to the fetus. It reduces the risks of high blood pressure, heart attacks and other cardiovascular diseases. It cuts down the blood sugar levels also.

Krill oil benefits: Like fish oil, krill oil comes with various benefits. It is known for its high nutritional value, helps with weight loss and is ideal for people with heart ailments. Unlike fish oil, it provides small amount of vitamin A, D and E, delivering omega-3 fats and astaxanthin which is an antioxidant.

1. Strengthens immune system: Krill oil helps to keep up a good immune system which fights illness and disease in the body.

2. Improves cognition: Krill oil, like fish oil, improves the power of concentration. It improves cognition and memory skills. It is great for children’s brain development.

3. Protects cell membrane: Ingestion of krill oil protects cell membrane by constructing a virtual wall around them. Free radicals which cause cancer are blocked and they are unable to enter the cells.

4. Anti-aging: Regular usage of krill oil can invert problems of aging. Krill oil keeps the skin hale and healthy, preventing wrinkling and damage to the skin.

5. Regulates blood sugar level: Like fish oil, krill oil also regulates blood sugar levels in patients with diabetes.  It makes absorption of glucose easier and hence, keeps the body functioning well.

6. Relieves arthritic pain: Krill oil relieves arthritic patients of their pain, thanks to its anti-inflammatory properties.

7. Astaxanthin: Astaxanthin is responsible for protection of central nervous system and the brain from  attack of free radicals. It shields the skin and eyes from UV radiation and cuts down on symptoms of  premenstrual syndrome.

Side effects of krill oil: Krill oil is not without side effects. Hence, consult with your doctor before using krill oil. It has high fatty acids which leads to diarrhea and loose stools. It can also cause severe allergic reactions such as swelling of the face, neck, tongue, lips, and abdominal pain etc. Krill oil combined with drugs may lead to fatality. If you even suspect that you have a shellfish or fish allergy, and then do not take krill oil supplements, even if the reactions are not severe.