Here are four health benefits of krill oil.

Krill oil from the pristine waters of the Antarctic is a rich source of essential nutrients and offers a variety of health benefits.  Studies have shown that krill oil can have a positive effect on your brain, heart, bones and more.  Here are four health benefits of krill oil:

1. Heart Health – Krill oil contains Omega-3 fatty acids (primarily EPA and DHA) that have proven cardiovascular health benefits.  They combat inflammation in blood vessels, lower triglyceride levels and LDL cholesterol, while raising HDL cholesterol.  Omega-3’s also tend to lower blood pressure and because of an anticoagulant effect, can help prevent and treat atherosclerosis by inhibiting the development of blood clots, which can cause heart attacks and strokes.  (People on blood thinners should not take Krill Oil because of this without consulting a doctor.)  Krill oil has an added benefit of super antioxidant, astaxanthin, which also supports heart health.
   
2. Brain Health – Normal cognitive function is supported by Omega-3 and phospholipids, which are vital nutrients found in krill oil. DHA found in Omega-3’s is the most abundant fatty acid in the human brain (60%), playing a key structural and functional role in memory, mood, attention and brain function.  Unfortunately, DHA levels naturally decline with age, so it is crucial to supplement with Omega-3 DHA to maintain brain health and sharp mental acuity.
   
3. Joint Health – Studies have shown that krill oil prevents inflammation and reduces existing inflammation.  Omega-3’s are transformed in the body into potent hormones called, eicosanoids, which control several important functions and trigger the secretion of anti-inflammatory prostaglandins, which have been shown to reduce CRP (c-reactive protein) levels.  CRP levels are used as indicator of joint health.
   
4. Women’s Health – Menstrual health encompasses diverse body systems including hormonal balance, mood and energy patterns, and physiological symptoms. Most women experience several natural symptoms just a few days before their menstrual cycle begin. Shifts in estrogen and progesterone balance can result in moodiness, bloating, breast tenderness and compromised stress response, known as Pre-Menstrual Syndrome (PMS).   Researchers don’t fully understand how omega-3 fatty acids reduce the physical symptoms of PMS, but at least some of the effects may be caused by their anti-inflammatory properties.  Since Omega-3’s appear to regulate hormones and neurotransmitters by correcting the balance of fatty acids in the body, fish and marine oils may reduce the emotional symptoms of PMS by influencing hormone and neurotransmitter levels.