Krill Oil May be Better For Heart Than Fish Oil

OSLO, NorwayThe nutraceutical Superba Krill Oil, rich in omega-3 phospholipids, gives substantially more reduction of fat in the heart and the liver than omega-3 from fish oil, according to a new preclinical study performed for the biotechnological company Aker BioMarine (J Nutr. 2009;139:8).

The study was performed by internationally acknowledged research groups in Italy. Under supervision by Dr. Sebastiano Banni and Dr. Vincenzo Di Marzo, the effect of Superba Krill Oil and omega-3 fish oil was investigated in obese zucker rats.

On parameters associated with obesity, Superba Krill Oil reduced the fat content in the heart by 42 percent. Fish oil reduced the fat content by 2 percent. A high level of fat in the heart is non-beneficial for the heart function, and it is therefore important to reduce the fat content in the heart to a normal level.

The corresponding examination of the fat amount in liver showed a reduction of 60 percent after administration of Superba Krill Oil, while fish oil reduced the fat content in the liver by 38 percent. A high level of fat in the liver impairs the liver function. This can lead to a reduced insulin sensitivity and contribute to the development of type 2 diabetes.

The results from this study confirm the hypothesis that Superba Krill Oil has a substantially better effect than fish oil on certain cardiovascular risk factors.