How Does Krill Oil Reduce Inflammation?

Many chronic conditions, including arthritis, are characterized by chronic inflammation. While inflammation is the body’s natural immune response to healing damage, chronic inflammation takes place even when there is no injury present. It plays a role in a host of diseases, including life-threatening conditions such as heart disease and diabetes.

Researchers suspect chronic inflammation is caused by a combination of contributing factors, including family history and diet. Interestingly, recent findings are suggesting that just as certain agents may promote an inflammatory response, others may also help to block it.

Krill oil, in particular, is one dietary source which may have the ability to neutralize pro-inflammatory activity. The oil is rich in omega-3, a natural compound with anti-inflammatory properties. While other types of fish oil share similar properties, krill oil, in particular, appears to have a greater potential to promote lipid catabolism, a process involved in the breaking down of fat. Because there is a known interplay between lipid catabolism and inflammation, krill oil’s ability to stimulate the process better than other supplements is noteworthy.

Research has shown that krill oil can reduce arthritis pain and intestinal inflammation. Individuals suffering from arthritic pain saw a reduction of inflammation after one month of taking 300 mg of krill oil daily. When taken in combination with hyaluronic acid and astaxanthin, additional anti-inflammatory compounds, arthritis sufferers reported pain levels were reduced by half within three months, and 63% of study participants reported being entirely pain-free.

If you think krill oil supplements could help to alleviate your arthritis pain or minimize inflammation from another chronic condition, speak to your physician. As with any vitamins, it’s a good idea to seek input from medical professionals before taking krill oil or other anti-inflammatory supplements to assess possible interactions and receive guidance on recommended dosages.