From the Guidelines
Krill oil is not recommended as a primary source of omega-3 fatty acids for cardiovascular health due to the lack of strong evidence supporting its benefits over traditional fish oil or prescription omega-3 products. When considering omega-3 supplements for heart health, it's essential to prioritize products with proven efficacy and safety. The American Heart Association recommends consuming at least 1 to 2 fish servings (3.5 oz per serving), preferably oily fish, per week to support cardiovascular health 1. For those who require supplemental omega-3 fatty acids, prescription omega-3 products, such as icosapent ethyl (IPE), have demonstrated cardiovascular benefits and are approved by the U.S. Food & Drug Administration for reducing triglyceride levels and ASCVD risk 1.
Key considerations when selecting an omega-3 supplement include:
- Efficacy: Choose products with proven benefits for cardiovascular health.
- Safety: Be aware of potential side effects, such as gastrointestinal issues or increased risk of atrial fibrillation.
- Quality: Select products from reputable manufacturers that specify EPA and DHA content and have been tested for contaminants.
- Regulation: Prescription omega-3 products are subject to stricter regulation than nonprescription fish oil supplements, ensuring consistent content and purity 1.
In terms of dosage, prescription omega-3 products typically contain 1-4 grams of EPA and DHA per day, taken with food to minimize digestive discomfort. However, it's crucial to consult with a healthcare professional before starting any supplement regimen, especially for individuals with underlying medical conditions or taking medications that may interact with omega-3 fatty acids.
From the Research
Krill Oil Overview
- Krill oil is a potential alternative for omega-3 supplementation, with studies suggesting it may be more effective than fish oil in increasing omega-3 index and reducing cardiovascular disease risk 2, 3
- Krill oil is a phospholipid-based oil, which may have higher bioavailability than fish oil, a triglyceride-based oil 3
Cardiovascular Health Benefits
- Omega-3 fatty acids, including those found in krill oil, have been shown to have beneficial effects on cardiovascular health, including reducing serum triglycerides and potentially lowering the risk of cardiovascular events 4, 5, 6
- However, the evidence for the cardiovascular benefits of krill oil is not yet conclusive, and more research is needed to fully understand its effects 2, 5
Comparison to Fish Oil
- Krill oil has been shown to be more effective than fish oil in increasing plasma and red blood cell n-3 PUFA concentrations, including EPA and DHA, and reducing n-6:n-3 PUFA ratios 3
- Krill oil may also be better tolerated than fish oil, with no adverse events reported in one study 3