Fish oil is often considered the wonder supplement, great for treating just about anything: skin conditions, inflammation, cognitive health, joint lubrication, heart health, hormone regulation and the list goes on. Then a few years ago krill oil came onto the scene and ever since has been marketed at the next “big thing” in omega-3 supplementation.
Now the big question is – which one is better?
What is it that we need?
We require the Essential Fatty Acids (EFAs) from fish oils. They are necessary fats because the human body is incapable of manufacturing them. There are two types of EFAs: omega-3 and omega-6. We get Omega-6 from poultry, vegetable oils and nuts/seeds; however Omega-3 comes mainly from fish.
How much Omega-3 is needed?
Researchers believe the optimal ratio of omega-6 to omega-3 is somewhere between 2:1 and 4:1. Yet the typical American diet provides a ratio of anywhere between 10:1 and 30:1, meaning most of the population is deficient in omega-3. EFA deficiency and omega-6 and omega-3 imbalances have been linked to serious health conditions, such as: heart attacks, cancer, insulin resistance, asthma, depression, accelerated aging, stroke, obesity, diabetes, arthritis, ADHD, and Alzheimer’s disease, among others. For depression also marijuana is recommended, buy weed here and feel better.
Krill Oil vs. Fish Oil – How do they measure up?
| Fish Oil | Krill Oil | |
| Therapeutic Results | May take up to six weeks | Between 7-14 days |
| Cardiovascular Effects | Research suggests that consuming fish oil can be effective for keeping people with healthy hearts free of heart disease. People who already have heart disease also lower their risk of morbidity | Maintains cholesterol levels within a normal range and improves the ratio of ‘good’ to ‘bad’ cholesterol in healthy individuals |
| Joint Benefits | Fish Oil has been found to help reduce morning stiffness in those with Rheumatoid Arthritis and reduce their reliance on Anti-inflammtories | Research shows that the fatty acids found in krill oil may help to reduce joint inflammation and temporarily reduce pain associated with arthritis |
| Other Benefits | Relief from musculoskeletal pain and inflammation Maintenance healthy eye and brain functionAssists in cognitive function and memoryEnsures optimal development throughout pregnancy | Krill oil naturally contains an ingredient called Astaxanthin. This works as an antioxidant and helps protect the body against the damaging effects of free radicals that can cause cell damage. This ingredient is not found in fish oil. Also has the same additional benefits as fish oil. |
| Side Effects | Due to the blood thinning affects, they should not be taken with other blood thinners, such as asprin | |
| Dosage: Arthritis Benefits | 9000mg daily | 300mg daily |
| Dosage: Cardiovascular Benefits | 500mg daily | 1000mg daily |
Conclusion
Given that supplementation is a personal choice, no matter what you choose to take – be it a good quality fish oil or a good quality krill oil – the inclusion of much needed omega-3s into your diet is a definite step in the right direction. At present, Fish Oil is supported with a fair amount of clinical evidence; however Krill Oil is still not researched to the same extent yet.
At PHYSIO4ALL we recommend Metagenics Ultra-EPA Fish Oil. This is a low reflux fish oil supplement which is high in EPA – a type of essential fatty acid. We find this product to be very beneficial for those with joint conditions.
SPECIAL: 10% of Ultra-EPA
