Heart/Inflammation

Krill oil

Marine omega-3 oil from krill that modestly lowers triglycerides and may reduce inflammation in adults with low fish intake.

Krill oil

Marine omega-3 oil from krill that modestly lowers triglycerides and may reduce inflammation in adults with low fish intake.

score

evidence

Caution

risk

Proven Benefits

01Lowers triglycerides modestly

02Improves omega-3 index

03May lower hs-CRP

04May improve HDL/total cholesterol

05May ease joint pain/stiffness

06May modestly lower blood pressure

Chemical Forms

Recommended

Krill oil standardized for EPA+DHA and phospholipids
Concentrated krill oil
Krill phospholipid oil with retained astaxanthin

Avoid

Low-dose omega-3 blends with token krill oil
Products that list total krill oil but not EPA/DHA
Oxidized krill oil (rancid odor or failed peroxide testing)

Expert Note

Krill oil's main advantage is phospholipid-bound EPA/DHA, so the label should disclose actual EPA+DHA and phospholipid content rather than just total oil weight. Underdosed blends erase most of that advantage. Oxidized oil also reduces quality and may worsen GI side effects.

Protocol

Amount

1-2 g

Frequency

Once daily; split into 2 doses if needed

When

With a meal, ideally one containing some fat, to improve absorption and reduce reflux.

Condition-Based Dosing

Adults with low fish intake

1 g daily— Choose a product that discloses at least 120-250 mg combined EPA+DHA.

Low omega-3 index or modest lipid support

1-2 g daily for 8-12 weeks— Check the label carefully; krill oil is usually less concentrated than standard fish oil.

GI sensitivity or reflux

500 mg twice daily with meals— Splitting the dose often improves tolerance.

Safety & Limits

Upper Safe Limit

No official UL; up to 5 g/day combined EPA+DHA from supplements is generally regarded as safe for adults (FDA/EFSA practical ceiling).

Cycling

Safe for continuous use

Contraindications

Shellfish allergy — krill is a crustacean and may trigger allergic reactions

Anticoagulant or antiplatelet drugs — additive bleeding risk is possible, especially at higher omega-3 intakes

Bleeding disorders or planned surgery — may prolong bleeding time; ask a clinician before use

History of atrial fibrillation — very high-dose marine omega-3 may raise AF risk in susceptible adults

Pregnancy or breastfeeding — limited krill-specific safety data; fish-based DHA is better studied

Avoid Combining With

✕Orlistat or other fat-blocking drugs (reduce absorption — separate by 2+ hours)

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