Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s diseases are debilitating and currently have no cure. However, research suggests that krill oil may hold the key to fighting these conditions.
Krill oil is a type of oil derived from tiny shrimp-like crustaceans called krill that live in the icy waters of the oceans around the world.
What is Krill Oil?
Krill oil, like fish oil, is a source of omega-3 fatty acids, which are essential for maintaining good health.
However, krill oil has many benefits over fish oil, including providing a more bioavailable form of omega-3 fatty acids, as well as being a powerful antioxidant.
Antioxidants are important for protecting the body from the damage caused by free radicals, which are harmful molecules that can cause cell damage and contribute to the development of a range of diseases, including Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s diseases.
How Krill Oil Can Help Fight Alzheimer’s Disease
Research has shown that krill oil may be effective in preventing and improving the symptoms of Alzheimer’s disease.
One study found that krill oil reduced the buildup of beta-amyloid plaques in the brain, which are a hallmark of Alzheimer’s disease.
Another study found that krill oil improved cognitive function and memory in subjects with mild cognitive impairment, which is a precursor to Alzheimer’s disease.
Krill oil was found to be more effective than fish oil in this study, likely due to the greater bioavailability of its omega-3 fatty acids.
Krill oil has also been shown to have anti-inflammatory effects, which may also be beneficial in preventing Alzheimer’s disease.
Chronic inflammation is a contributing factor to the development of Alzheimer’s disease, and reducing inflammation in the brain may help to prevent or slow its progression.
How Krill Oil Can Help Fight Parkinson’s Disease
Similarly to Alzheimer’s disease, krill oil may also be effective in preventing and improving the symptoms of Parkinson’s disease.
One study found that krill oil reduced the risk of developing Parkinson’s disease by 57% in subjects with the highest intake of omega-3 fatty acids.
In animal studies, krill oil has been found to protect brain cells from damage and improve motor function in subjects with Parkinson’s disease.
Krill oil’s antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties are likely responsible for its neuroprotective effects.
How to Take Krill Oil
Krill oil is available in soft gel capsules, as well as in liquid form. It is important to only take krill oil from a reputable source, as the quality can vary widely between brands.
For adults, the recommended dose of krill oil is 1-3 grams per day, taken with a meal.
It is important to speak with your healthcare provider before taking krill oil, especially if you are taking any medications or have any underlying health conditions.
Conclusion
While Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s diseases are currently without a cure, there is hope that krill oil may hold the key to fighting these conditions.
Krill oil’s anti-inflammatory and neuroprotective properties make it a promising supplement for preventing and improving the symptoms of these debilitating diseases.