Supplements
The 10 Best Krill Oil Supplements
What are the best krill oil supplements?
Krill oil is a dietary supplement extracted from an Antarctic krill species.
As an alternative to fish oil, krill oil is rich in omega-3 fatty acids and phospholipid-derived fatty acids (PLFA).
There are many health benefits associated with krill oil, including antioxidants that protect against cell damage and good fats that improve circulation and relieve inflammation.
If you want to boost your cardiovascular health without eating a diet heavy in fish and seafood, then krill oil capsules may be good for you.
To help, we gathered a list of high-quality supplements from leading krill oil brands.
Here are the 10 best krill oil brand supplements to consider adding to your diet:
Top 10 Krill Oil Supplements Compared
Our supplement lists are created by researching the best-reviewed products from the most reputable companies and web sources.
In A Rush? Here’s Our Top Pick:
10. NOW Foods – Neptune Krill Oil
NOW Foods Neptune krill oil contains special ingredients astaxanthin and docosahexaenoic acid for an extra nutrient boost.
Made with 100% Neptune krill oil, this product delivers 500 mg of krill oil in each softgel.
The phospholipid-bound omega-3 supplements offer impressive purity for ample cardiovascular and joint support.
The potency and product formulation meet high standards with the manufacturing process holding an NPA A-rated GMP certification.
NOW Foods is an American family-owned company making supplements since 1968, and they specialize in non-GMO and sustainably harvested products from Friend of the Sea sources.
The Neptune krill oil can enhance joint comfort, support blood lipid levels already within a healthy range, and even help to keep a healthy feminine balance.
Two softgels per serving contain 250 mg of omega-3 fatty acids and 450 mg of phospholipids.
Pros
- Pure oil from Antarctic krill (Euphausia superba).
- 250 mg of omega-3 fatty acids per serving.
- 360 mcg of astaxanthin per serving.
- Promotes cardiovascular and joint health.
- Friend of the Sea fresh sources.
- Great for heart health.
Cons
- Two softgels per serving.
- Should be taken with breakfast, so not ideal for those who eat late or skip a morning meal.
- Need to consult a physician before taking with anti-coagulants or other medications.
9. Nutricost – Krill Oil
Nutricost krill oil is a quality softgel supplement with 1,000 mg of krill oil per serving of two softgels.
240 mg of omega-3 fatty acids, including 120 mg of EPA and 80 mg of DHA, are in every serving, alongside 200 mg of phospholipids and 200 mcg of astaxanthin.
The capsule is made out of gelatin, glycerin, and purified water, but otherwise, the only ingredient is high-quality krill oil for excellent nutritional value.
Not only is Nutricost krill oil non-GMO and gluten-free, but it’s also made in a GMP-compliant and FDA-registered facility.
The softgels are easy to take, and there are 60 in each bottle, giving you 30 high potency servings of essential fatty acids to boost heart and joint health.
Pros
- 1,000 mg of krill oil per serving.
- Two softgels a day is a sufficient dose.
- Can take supplements with 6-10 oz. of water.
Cons
- Small size – only 30 servings per bottle.
8. Micro Ingredients – Krill Oil
Micro Ingredients pack 1,000 mg of Antarctic krill oil into each serving of two softgels, with 150 total servings.
The high nutritional content includes 160 mg of EPA, 80 mg of DHA, 200 mg of phospholipids, and 400 mcg of astaxanthin.
Gelatin, glycerin, and purified water are the only other ingredients in these natural and pure krill oil supplements, which are free of soy, yeast, dairy, gluten, and corn.
The brand promotes these supplements as a strong source of immune system and brain health support.
It’s rich in immune vitamins, including vitamin C, B1, B2, and B12, plus minerals like zinc, magnesium, and calcium.
Micro Ingredients krill oil protects cells against free radical damage and promotes a healthy heart while also boosting joint and cognitive health.
Pros
- 1,000 mg of krill oil in two softgel serving.
- Features antioxidant power of astaxanthin with phospholipids, EPA, and DHA.
- Safe for adults and kids.
- Safety and purity confirmed through 3rd-party lab testing.
- Non-GMO, no soy, and no gluten.
- Free of dairy, preservatives, and artificial colors/flavors.
Cons
- Recommended two softgels three times daily.
7. MegaRed – Superior Omega-3 Krill Oil
Schiff MegaRed markets its omega-3 krill oil as the superior choice that’s 3x purer than regular krill oil.
There is 350 mg of krill oil in each softgel serving, including 90 mg of omega-3 fatty acids, 50 mg of EPA, and 24 mg of DHA.
You can also get 130 mg of phospholipids and 17 mcg of astaxanthin per serving.
There’s a 130-day supply in each pack, plus no fishy aftertaste to make it easier to swallow.
Other advantages of MegaRed krill oil supplements include the easy absorption and heart health support, with EPA and DHA fatty acids that could lower the risk of coronary heart disease.
They can also help with eye health by developing and supporting long-term vision.
The formula contains no gluten, just bovine-sourced gelatin for the strong, nutrient-packed softgels.
Pros
- 350 mg of krill oil per serving.
- 90 mg of omega-3s, 50 mg of EPA, 24 mg of DHA.
- Good source of phospholipids and astaxanthin antioxidants.
- Serving size is one softgel vs. two for many competitors.
- 100% pure Antarctic krill oil, 3 times purer than regular krill oil.
- No fishy aftertaste.
Cons
- Lower krill oil and omega-3 content per serving than competitors.
- Contains sulfites.
6. Carlye – Antarctic Krill Oil
Carlyle Antarctic krill oil has an impressively high concentration with 2,000 mg of krill oil per serving.
There are two quick-release softgels in a daily serving, with 240 mg of phospholipid omega-3 complex.
These supplements also have 80 mg of EPA and 40 mg of DHA, plus 600 mcg of astaxanthin.
Sourced from Antarctic red krill, this super-absorbent daily supplement boosts brain, heart, memory, and joint health.
The extra-strength softgel formula includes gelatin and vegetable glycerin for an easy-to-swallow solution.
Carlyle guarantees its supplements as non-GMO, gluten-free, and soy-free, and says it can deliver increased energy and fight cell damage from free radicals.
The softgels are exclusively made with premium pure krill harvested fresh from the crisp, cool Antarctic waters.
Pros
- High concentration of krill oil with 2,000 mg per serving.
- One daily dose of two softgels is sufficient.
- Quick-release softgels deliver fast, high-quality nutrients.
- Premium Antarctic red krill source.
- Non-GMO, gluten-free, and soy-free.
- Boosts energy and protection from free radical cell damage.
Cons
- 60 servings per container is not as much as some competitors.
- Should be used in moderation with your diet to avoid overloading on fatty acids.
5. Bronson – Antarctic Krill Oil
Bronson’s 100% pure premium krill oil is heavy metal tested and rich in omega-3 fatty acids, including EPA and DHA.
There is 1,000 mg of krill oil in the two-softgel serving, with 200 mg of omega-3s, including 120 mg of EPA and 80 mg of DHA.
These soy-free and gluten-free krill oil supplements also have 200 mg of phospholipids and 200 mcg of natural astaxanthin.
Gelatin, glycerin, purified water, and ethyl vanillin are the only ingredients in Bronson Antarctic krill oil, which is extracted from superior krill sources in the clean, fresh waters off Antarctica.
The company promotes the ability of these supplements to support healthy cholesterol levels and maintain blood pressure in a normal healthy range.
Product quality is a priority, with batches regularly tested at Bronson’s GMP-registered facility in New York.
Pros
- 1,000 mg of krill oil in serving of two softgels.
- 200 mg of omega-3s, with 120 mg of EPA and 80 mg of DHA.
- Clean and sustainable Antarctic krill source.
- Non-GMO, gluten-free, and soy-free.
- Reduced fishy odor and aftertaste.
- Bronson has 60+ years of manufacturing experience.
Cons
- Additives in the gelatin capsules.
- Should be taken with the first meal, so it isn’t ideal for those who skip breakfast.
4. Viva Naturals – Antarctic Krill Oil
The high concentration of Antarctic krill oil from Viva Naturals makes these capsules a popular choice for brain and joint health.
There are two Caplique capsules in every serving, offering 1,250 mg of krill oil with 330 mg of omega-3 fatty acids, including 165 mg of EPA and 90 mg of DHA.
They are phospholipid-rich with 575 mg per serving, plus 1.6 mg of Esterified astaxanthin that helps with heart and skin health.
Viva Naturals doesn’t have the fishy aftertaste that some other krill oils do, with the only ingredients being the gelatin for the capsules and the pure krill oil.
The manufacturer says it is virtually odorless and tasteless without the smelly aftertaste from low-quality fish oils.
The innovative encapsulation method stops fishy burps, plus the capsules are non-GMO and dairy-free with an IKOS 5-star certification for third-party testing and verification.
Pros
- Higher than average dose with 1,250 mg of krill oil per serving.
- 330 mg of omega-3 fatty acids and 575 mg of phospholipids.
- High astaxanthin content, including 1.6 mg per serving.
- Strict quality control process for the purest krill oil product.
- No fish odor or taste.
Cons
- Gelatin additives for the capsules.
- A newer company founded in 2011 doesn’t have the same decades-long track record as others.
3. Sports Research – Antarctic Krill Oil
Antarctic krill oil from Sports Research offers 500 mg of Superba2 krill oil, an advanced formula clinically proven to boost omega-3 fatty acid levels.
These gluten-free softgels contain fresh Antarctic krill oil with capsules made of non-GMO vegetable glycerin, kosher gelatin, and purified water.
They are eco-friendly and sustainably sourced for pure and potent omega-3 fatty acids EPA and DHA.
Mini softgels are easy to swallow and hold GMP and MSC certifications satisfying strict manufacturing processes.
Sports Research states its krill oil supplements support cell function and optimal joint, skin, heart, brain, and eye health.
It also has a significantly reduced krill smell and aftertaste for easier consumption, thanks to the water-dispersible phospholipids.
Pros
- 500 mg of krill oil with 120 mg omega-3s.
- 200 mg phospholipids and 250 mcg of astaxanthin.
- 120 mini softgels verified non-GMO.
- Third-party tested with IKOS 5-star certification.
- Kosher-friendly with minimal smell and aftertaste.
Cons
- Lower dose compared to some supplements.
- Has additives in capsule gelatin.
2. Bulk Supplements – Krill Oil
Krill oil softgels from Bulk Supplements Gelatin offer 300 mg of omega-3 fatty acids in every serving.
The simple formula of glycerin, gelatin, and krill oil gets the job done, with two softgels recommended per serving 2-3 times a day.
There are 300 softgel supplements in every pack for a total of 150 servings that benefit brain, heart, joints, and immune function with rich antioxidants.
Bulk Supplements says its supplements are high in phospholipids that protect cell membranes from free radicals and improve cardiovascular health.
They can help to minimize joint inflammation and the cell damage that comes with aging.
The clean formula includes fresh Antarctic krill that’s sustainably harvested by hand.
Bulk Supplements sourcing uses small nets and buckets to catch the krill, reducing the environmental impacts and ensuring high quality and ethical practices.
Pros
- Great bulk value with 300 supplements and 150 servings per pack.
- 300 mg of omega-3 fatty acids per serving of two softgels.
- Antioxidant protection to enhance cardiovascular health and joint comfort.
- Protects against free radicals that cause cell damage and signs of aging.
Cons
- May have a fishy odor.
- Less astaxanthin compared to similar supplements.
1. Transparent Labs – Krill Oil
When it comes to the top rated krill oil, Transparent Labs deliver. Every bottle of 30 liquid softgels offers impressive Superba krill oil content with 1,000 mg per serving.
Just take two liquid softgels with food for a wide array of health benefits like cardiovascular support, joint health, and brain function.
The high levels of EPA and DHA come from the pure Antarctic krill, with 400 mg of phospholipids and 220 mg of omega-3 fatty acids in each serving.
Not only is there high nutritional value, but these krill oil softgels also offer an easily digestible formula with no fishy aftertaste or burp.
There are no artificial sweeteners, colors, or preservatives in krill oil supplements from Transparent Labs.
They are gluten-free and non-GMO with no mercury and the highest purity. The manufacturer also states that these krill oil softgels are 48x more potent than fish oil.
Pros
- 1,000 mg per serving of two liquid softgels.
- 120 mg of EPA and 55 mg of DHA per serving.
- Gluten-free, non-GMO, and no artificial preservatives.
- Promotes metabolism and brain, heart, and joint health.
- No reflux or fishy aftertaste.
Cons
- Only 30 servings per container.
- Need to take two softgels per serving for best results.
- Lower astaxanthin content – just 80 mcg per serving.
FAQs About Krill Oil
Q: What Is Krill Oil?
Krill oil is an alternative to fish oil that delivers all the same benefits, and some say it’s even better than fish oil.
Krill oil comes from the tiny crustaceans that whales feast on, with the term krill translating to “whale food” in Norwegian.
These shrimp-like organisms found in the fresh Antarctic waters are used to extract krill oi for supplements, which are rich in omega-3 fatty acids with EPA and DHA.
These compounds deliver many health benefits, including healthy skin, lower inflammation, joint support, and cardiovascular health.
Q: What Are The Benefits Of Krill Oil?
Krill oil contains high levels of omega-3 fatty acids, including DHA and EPA, which are required for many essential bodily functions.
Krill oil supports heart, brain, joint, and immune system health, with powerful antioxidants to protect cells from damage and minimize inflammation.
Other benefits of krill oil include its faster and easier absorption than fish oil, lack of fishy aftertaste, and sustainability.
Plus, it can reduce joint pain and arthritis flare-ups, keep skin looking vibrant and healthy, and alleviate PMS symptoms.
Q: What Are The Side Effects Of Krill Oil?
Most adults will have minimal or no side effects when taking krill oil supplements in safe amounts, as recommended by product label doses and medical professionals.
Possible side effects include decreased appetite, bloating, fishy burps, nausea, upset stomach, and diarrhea.
If you plan to take krill oil for more than three months, it’s best to chat to your doctor just to be safe.
Q: Is Krill Oil The Same As Fish Oil?
Krill oil and fish oil are similar, but the animals they come from are different.
Fish oil is derived from a number of different fish species, including cod, trout, mackerel, and salmon.
Krill oil comes from the tiny crustaceans that look like shrimp and are a key food source for whales.
These oils cannot be produced in the human body, so dietary supplement forms are in high demand.
While fish oil has higher concentrations of nutritious EPA and DHA, krill oil has more antioxidants and is easier for the body to absorb.
There will be greater levels of fatty acids in the blood with krill oil than the same dosage of fish oil.
That’s because the fatty acids in fish oil are triglycerides, while in krill oil, the fatty acids are phospholipids that the body processes more easily.
Plus, krill oil contains astaxanthin, a powerful anti-inflammatory antioxidant that can improve heart health.
Studies also indicate krill oil is better at lowering bad cholesterol and blood pressure than fish oil.
Q: Is Krill Oil Worth Taking?
Krill oil is a worthwhile addition to your daily diet if you’re looking to improve heart, joint, brain, and immune system health through nutrient-rich supplements with minimal aftertaste.
Especially if you don’t eat a lot of fish or seafood, but you still want to tap into this natural source of essential omega-3 fatty acids, then krill oil is a safe and effective choice.
Q: Should I Take Krill Oil Every Day?
Krill oil is safe to take every day, as long as it’s within the recommended dosage.
You don’t want to take too much krill oil at once and risk bleeding or high blood pressure.
If you have concerns about your krill oil intake or aren’t sure how many milligrams you should aim for each day, talk to your doctor for confirmation on what’s best for your diet.
Q: Who Should Not Take Krill Oil?
Anyone with a seafood allergy should not take krill oil.
It’s possible those with seafood allergies may have a serious reaction to krill out, so it’s best to avoid it just to be on the safe side.
Pregnant and breastfeeding women should also refrain from taking krill oil because there aren’t enough proven studies to confirm whether it’s safe or not.
Krill oil may slow blood clotting and increase the risk of bleeding for individuals with bleeding disorders.
Anyone who takes blood thinners or has a history of bleeding problems should always consult with a doctor first.
Also, krill oil intake should be avoided two weeks before surgery due to bleeding risks.
Q: Can Krill Oil Help You Lose Weight?
The omega-3 fatty acids in krill oil can aid in weight loss by reducing hunger and appetite.
It can also increase your metabolism, which in turn helps burn additional calories each day that could contribute to weight loss.
If you want to lose weight, krill oil should be used in conjunction with other healthy nutrients, dietary supplements, and a balanced diet.
Adequate physical activity can further stimulate weight loss, but you can always ask your doctor for the best weight loss suggestions catered to your health profile.
Q: Does Krill Oil Help With Belly Fat?
Krill oil is a big health booster with ample omega-3 fatty acids to help with faster fat burning and potential weight loss.
If you want to burn belly fat and lose weight, it’s best to incorporate krill oil and any other dietary supplements with a healthy, balanced diet and ample physical activity.
You can always ask your doctor to confirm the best diet plan to help with belly fat and where krill oil may fit into your goals and daily habits.
Q: Does Krill Oil Help Gain Weight?
Krill oil is unlikely to help you gain weight unless you are also increasing your calorie intake, drinking protein shakes or taking supplements to help you gain weight.
Many people report krill oil makes them feel fuller for longer after a meal, which may suppress appetite and encourage weight loss instead of weight gain.
Ask your doctor about your weight goals and how krill oil and other supplements can make the most difference.
Q: Is Krill Oil Good For Hair Growth?
The omega-3 fatty acids in krill oil can help with hair thickness and growth.
Fish and krill oil may stimulate hair growth and offer antioxidant protection to keep hair looking fresh, strong, and beautiful for longer.
When combined with healthy, natural hair products, krill oil, and other antioxidant-rich supplements can make a difference to hair appearance and texture.
Q: How To Choose/ Which To Choose?
Choosing a krill oil supplement depends on your diet and how many milligrams of omega-3 fatty acids you want to add to your diet.
If you already eat fish, shrimp, or other seafood several times a week, you may not need as high a dosage as someone who never eats fish and seriously lacks omega-3 fatty acids in their diet.
Check the dosage and the product background, including where the krill comes from and what sustainable harvesting practices are used.
Then you can choose a krill oil supplement that fits your nutrition needs and ethical standards.
Summary
Krill oil provides the same awesome benefits as fish oil, including omega-3 fatty acids for anti-inflammation and antioxidant-rich astaxanthin.
Krill oil may also improve joint pain, heart health, and PMS symptoms.
If you don’t eat a lot of fish or you’re looking for an alternative to fish oils, one of the best krill oil supplements could be great for you.
Here’s a quick recap of the 10 best krill oil supplements:
- Transparent Labs – Krill Oil
- Bulk Supplements – Krill Oil
- Sports Research – Antarctic Krill Oil
- Viva Naturals – Antarctic Krill Oil
- Bronson – Antarctic Krill Oil
- Carlye – Antarctic Krill Oil
- MegaRed – Superior Omega-3 Krill Oil
- Micro Ingredients – Krill Oil
- Nutricost – Krill Oil
- NOW Foods – Neptune Krill Oil
