Krill Oil vs. Fish Oil: Know the Difference
By Shumaila Saeed || Updated on December 25, 2023
Krill oil, derived from small crustaceans, offers omega-3s with antioxidants, while fish oil, sourced from various fish, provides omega-3s without these antioxidants.
Key Differences
Krill oil is extracted from Antarctic krill, small crustaceans, and contains omega-3 fatty acids, phospholipids, and astaxanthin, an antioxidant. Fish oil, derived from the tissues of oily fish like salmon and mackerel, primarily consists of omega-3 fatty acids, specifically EPA and DHA, but lacks significant antioxidants.
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Dec 16, 2023
The omega-3s in krill oil are in the form of phospholipids, which are thought to be more easily absorbed by the human body. Fish oil omega-3s are in the form of triglycerides and may not be as efficiently absorbed.
Shumaila Saeed
Dec 16, 2023
Krill harvesting is generally considered to have a lower environmental impact and is often touted as more sustainable. Fish oil production, depending on the fish source and fishing practices, can have varying levels of environmental impact.
Shumaila Saeed
Dec 16, 2023
Both krill and fish oils are taken for their omega-3 benefits, which include heart health, brain function, and anti-inflammatory properties. Krill oil, with its antioxidant content, might offer additional benefits against oxidative stress.
Shumaila Saeed
Dec 16, 2023
Krill oil is typically more expensive than fish oil and may not be as widely available. Fish oil is a well-established supplement with widespread availability and a range of price points.
Shumaila Saeed
Dec 16, 2023
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Comparison Chart
Source
Antarctic krill, small crustaceans.
Various oily fish like salmon, mackerel.
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Dec 16, 2023
Composition
Omega-3s (EPA, DHA), phospholipids, astaxanthin.
Omega-3s (EPA, DHA), lacks phospholipids and astaxanthin.
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Dec 16, 2023
Absorption
Omega-3s in phospholipid form, potentially better absorbed.
Omega-3s in triglyceride form.
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Dec 16, 2023
Environmental Impact
Generally lower, considered more sustainable.
Varies, dependent on fishing practices.
Shumaila Saeed
Dec 16, 2023
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Krill Oil and Fish Oil Definitions
Krill Oil
A supplement derived from Antarctic krill, rich in omega-3s.
He started taking krill oil for its heart health benefits.
Shumaila Saeed
Dec 11, 2023
Fish Oil
A supplement derived from the tissues of oily fish.
Fish oil capsules are a staple in his daily supplements.
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Dec 11, 2023
Krill Oil
Contains astaxanthin, a potent antioxidant.
The astaxanthin in krill oil contributes to its anti-inflammatory properties.
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Dec 11, 2023
Fish Oil
Widely available and used supplement.
Fish oil is one of the most common dietary supplements on the market.
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Dec 11, 2023
Krill Oil
Often promoted for its sustainability.
She chose krill oil for its sustainable harvesting practices.
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Dec 11, 2023
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Fish Oil
High in omega-3 fatty acids, EPA and DHA.
I take fish oil for its omega-3 rich content.
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Dec 11, 2023
Krill Oil
Omega-3s in krill oil are bound to phospholipids.
Krill oil is valued for its phospholipid omega-3 content.
Shumaila Saeed
Dec 11, 2023
Fish Oil
Known for supporting cardiovascular health.
Her doctor recommended fish oil for heart health.
Shumaila Saeed
Dec 11, 2023
Krill Oil
Sourced from small crustaceans found in Antarctic waters.
Krill oil, an Antarctic supplement, is gaining popularity.
Shumaila Saeed
Dec 11, 2023
Fish Oil
Omega-3s in fish oil are in triglyceride form.
Fish oil provides omega-3s in a triglyceride form.
Shumaila Saeed
Dec 11, 2023
Repeatedly Asked Queries
Is krill oil more sustainable than fish oil?
Generally, krill oil is considered more sustainable, but this depends on the specific harvesting practices.
Shumaila Saeed
Dec 16, 2023
What is krill oil?
Krill oil is a dietary supplement extracted from Antarctic krill, containing omega-3 fatty acids.
Shumaila Saeed
Dec 16, 2023
Which is better absorbed, krill oil or fish oil?
Krill oil is thought to be better absorbed due to its omega-3s being bound to phospholipids.
Shumaila Saeed
Dec 16, 2023
Which is more expensive, krill oil or fish oil?
Krill oil is typically more expensive than fish oil.
Shumaila Saeed
Dec 16, 2023
Do both supplements help with inflammation?
Yes, both krill and fish oils have anti-inflammatory properties.
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Dec 16, 2023
Does fish oil contain antioxidants like krill oil?
No, fish oil lacks significant antioxidants present in krill oil.
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Dec 16, 2023
Is krill oil free from fishy aftertaste?
Krill oil is often reported to have less of a fishy aftertaste compared to fish oil.
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Dec 16, 2023
Can both krill oil and fish oil benefit heart health?
Yes, both are taken for their heart health benefits due to their omega-3 content.
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Dec 16, 2023
How does the body use the omega-3s in these oils?
Omega-3s from both oils are used for various bodily functions, including heart, brain, and joint health.
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Dec 16, 2023
How is fish oil different from krill oil?
Fish oil is derived from various oily fish and primarily contains omega-3 fatty acids, while krill oil, also rich in omega-3s, includes phospholipids and astaxanthin.
Shumaila Saeed
Dec 16, 2023
Are there any environmental concerns with fish oil?
Environmental concerns depend on the fish source and fishing practices.
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Dec 16, 2023
Is fish oil good for skin health?
Omega-3s in fish oil can benefit skin health, though studies are limited.
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Dec 16, 2023
Are there any side effects to taking krill oil?
Krill oil is generally safe but can cause digestive issues or allergic reactions in some people.
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Dec 16, 2023
How long does it take to see benefits from fish oil?
Benefits from fish oil can take several weeks to months to become noticeable.
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Dec 16, 2023
Can krill oil help with joint pain?
Yes, its anti-inflammatory properties may help with joint pain.
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Dec 16, 2023
Can krill oil and fish oil improve brain function?
Both supplements are believed to support brain health due to their omega-3 content.
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Dec 16, 2023
Can people with seafood allergies take krill oil?
Individuals with shellfish allergies should be cautious with krill oil.
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Dec 16, 2023
Does fish oil have any unique benefits over krill oil?
Fish oil is more established and researched, with a wider range of available studies.
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Dec 16, 2023
Can krill oil improve cholesterol levels?
Krill oil may help improve cholesterol levels, but more research is needed.
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Dec 16, 2023
Is fish oil easy to find in stores?
Yes, fish oil is widely available in pharmacies, health stores, and online.
Shumaila Saeed
Dec 16, 2023
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About Author
Written by
Shumaila SaeedShumaila Saeed, an expert content creator with 6 years of experience, specializes in distilling complex topics into easily digestible comparisons, shining a light on the nuances that both inform and educate readers with clarity and accuracy.
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