The reason that krill oil gained popularity over traditional fish oil is that it contains the antioxidant Astaxanthin; this is what gives the bright red pigment to krill oil, and also colours krill and other crustaceans such as lobsters and crabs. The oil from krill typically has a higher concentration of EPA, DHA and Astaxanthin than traditional fish oils.
What Are Essential Fatty Acids & Why Do We Need Them?
Essential fatty acids, or EFAs, are fatty acids that humans and other animals must ingest because the body requires them for good health but cannot synthesise them.
The term "essential fatty acid" refers to fatty acids required for biological processes but does not include the fat's that only act as fuel. Essential fatty acids should not be confused with essential oils.
Omega-3 essential fatty acids (EFAs) are long-chain, polyunsaturated fatty acids. They are essential fats because the human body is incapable of manufacturing them, they must be obtained through diet. There are two types of EFAs: omega-3 (alpha-linolenic acid) and omega-6 (linoleic acid). There is also an omega-9, but it is not essential as it can be manufactured by the body if adequate omega-3 and omega-6 are present in the diet.
EFA are necessary for the following processes:
- Development and functioning of the brain and nervous system
- Regulation of blood pressure
- Liver function
- Immune system
- Inflammatory responses
- Breakdown and transport cholesterol
DHA and EPA Explained
Once consumed Omega-3 fatty acids convert into DHA (Docosahexaenoic Acid) and EPA (Eicosapentaenoic Acid). DHA and EPA are polyunsaturated fats that play a crucial role in the body, specifically in the vision development and brain function in children
research suggests that high intakes of fish and Omega-3 is link to decreased rates of depression and increased levels of concentration.
A lack of DHA has also been associated with Alzheimer's disease, attention disorder, cystic fibrosis and other cognitive diseases.
Why Choose Krill Oil For Your Omega-3?
Krill oil is a superior source of Astaxanthin, EPA and DHA, because the polyunsaturated fats are packaged as phospholipids in krill oil, they can be used immediately by your body, where as the EPA and DHA in fish oils are typically packaged as triglycerides and have to undergo additional processing to make them bioavailable. Krill oil is also more stable because it includes Astaxanthin, a powerful antioxidant, that protects the fragile fats from oxidising.