Our krill oil comes from Neptune, the market leader in krill oil (NKO™), and the
product that continues to be the subject of most research.
Studies for the potential health benefits include cardiovascular disease, cholesterol,
inflammation, arthritis, premenstrual syndrome and dysmenorrhea.
Krill oil is a unique source of omega-3 fatty acids, choline and astaxanthin (a naturally
occurring carotenoid with powerful antioxidant capacity).
Krill oil is sourced from Antarctic krill (Euphausiasuperba), a small, shrimp-like
crustacean that exists in large swarms. It attains an individual maximum size of 2
inches and feeds mainly on phytoplankton or sea ice algae. Krill is the staple food of
many mammals, fish and sea birds in the Southern Oceans. Krill oil is a natural source
of the red carotenoid astaxanthin, which is derived from the micro-algae food source of
the Antarctic krill. Astaxanthin is responsible for the red colour of krill and other
crustaceans such as lobster, shrimp and salmon. Much of the commercial fish farming
industry no longer use this natural carotenoid, with synthetic astaxanthin added to fish
feed to improve the colour of the fish instead.
Attributes of Krill Oil
1) Krill omega-3 fatty acids are bound to phospholipids where it is considered that
they are more efficiently absorbed via the small intestines with the phospholipid
complex readily absorbed into the cell membranes. Other sources of omega-3
fatty acids are bound to triglycerides, which are insoluble and require bile salts for
their emulsification and absorption via the lymphatic system. A study of the
metabolic effects of krill and fish oil found comparable dietary sources of omega-3
fatty acids when assessing plasma concentrations. Despite the lower levels of EPA
and DHA in krill, researchers found no statistical significance in levels with their
findings, indicating an increased bio-availability of krill to that of fish oil.
2) Krill phospholipids contain choline, an essential nutrient, and neurotransmitter
precursor important to brain and muscle tissue. Phosphatidyl choline participates in
fatty acid transport in the blood and across membranes. Choline intake is
important, starting in early life during foetal development and continuing where a
deficiency of choline is linked to areas of dysfunction, including elevated
homocysteine, memory, growth and hepatic disorders. Dietary intake of Choline
may be low in many people. Major food sources are liver, eggs and wheatgerm.
3) Astaxanthin, a carotenoid molecule with powerful antioxidant activity, is found in
krill oil. It is profoundly protective to the endothelium of all blood vessels and also
to the tissue of the retina. Researchers have identified a number of other health
benefits from the anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties of astaxanthin.
Neptune Krill Oil (NKO™) contains only esterified astaxanthin a totally absorbable form
of astaxanthin. This naturally metabolised formof astaxanthin extracted from krill
provides the full carotenoid and antioxidant benefit.
Further detailed information is available in our booklet on Krill Oil.
Suggested Intake: 1-2 capsules daily, or take as directed by a practitioner.
Suitable for: People with Candida and yeast sensitivities.
Contraindications: If there is any deficiency of the liver, or if you are on antithrombotic drugs (e.g. Warfarin or Heparin). Please consult a doctor first and take no more than 1 capsule per day. This product is derived from shellfish and therefore should not be taken by people with sensitivities to shellfish or fish.
Non-Active Ingredients: Fish gelatine, glycerine, water, lemon oil coating, astaxanthin.
Non GM & Free From: Wheat; yeast, starch, gluten; lactose; added colourings, sweeteners & preservatives.
Storage: Keep cool, dry & out of direct sunlight.