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By now you’ve probably heard about the benefits of omega 3 fatty acids. Eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) are examples of omega 3 fatty acids. Fatty acids like these are found in fish, soy, canola oil and some walnuts.
Studies suggest omega 3 fatty acids help prevent heart disease. For people who already have heart disease, omega 3 fatty acids may help prevent heart attack , stroke and even death. The question is what is the best way to incorporate omega 3 into one’s diet? The American Heart Association (AHA) recommends eating at least two servings of fatty fish like salmon (baked or broiled) weekly. However many people do not enjoy the taste of fish or have time to cook it. Fish is thought to be the best source for omega 3. Sources like walnuts, soy and canola oil do not contain enough EPA/DHA.
Krill oil is another source of omega 3, Krill are shrimp-like crustaceans. Manufacturers of krill oil supplements claim they are a substitute for fish oil for those who do not like the fishy taste. Manufacturers also claim that the omega 3 found in krill oil is better absorbed because it’s in a phospholipid form. Preliminary evidence does suggest that krill oil can lower cholesterol and triglycerides. However, kill oil has NOT been proven to have the same benefits as fish oil for preventing heart attack and stroke. Krill oil contains smaller amounts of omega 3 compared to fish oil. Finally, krill oil supplements generally cost more than fish oil supplements.
For the time being, it may be prudent to stick to fish oil supplements until more information is available on krill oil. If the taste of fish oil supplements is a problem, one can try enteric coated supplements. Krill oil may be an option for those who absolutely can’t tolerate fish oil supplements.
Author: Christi Larson, Pharm. D.
Dr. Larson is a pharmacist, author of Empowered Medicine; A Guide for Consumers and creator of Empowered Medicine. You can read more about her by visiting www.EmpoweredMedicine.com and clicking on the 'About Us' tab. EmpoweredMedicine.com is committed to providing evidence-based medical information from a pharmacist's point of view.
References:
1. McKenney JM, Sica D. Role of prescription omega-3 fatty acids in the treatment of hypertriglyceridemia. Pharmacotherapy 2007;27:715-28.
2. Maki KC, Reeves MS, Farmer M, et al. Krill oil supplementation increases plasma concentrations of eicosapentaenoic and docosahexaenoic acids in overweight and obese men and women. Nutr Res 2009;29:609-15. .
3. Mayo Clinic. Taking fish oil supplements-without fishy burps. February 3, 2009. http://www.mayoclinic.org/news2009-mchi/5167.html?rss-feedid=4. (Accessed August 21, 2010).
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