The ocean is fast becoming an area of focus for medicine in terms of nutritious, healthy content for the body. The growing research and study of the world beneath the ocean have led to the discovery of peculiar oils that are not just unique, but also have a ton of health benefits.

The likes of Krill Oil, also known as Superba Krill Oil, and Cod Oil or Cod Liver Oil, are amongst many derived from the oceans. Now the question is, what is Krill Oil and Cod Oil, and are there any benefits attached to using them?

What is Krill Oil?

Krill Oil comes from a peculiar kind of shrimp-like creature, the Euphausia Superba, an Antarctic species of krill. As small as the krill is, it is rich in some types of omega-3 fatty acids, such as eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA).

It also contains phospholipids, choline, and astaxanthin, along with antioxidant properties. Surprisingly, this little guy is an essential component of the marine ecosystem as it’s the favorite food of dolphins, whales, and penguins.

What is Cod Oil?

Cod Liver Oil, on the other hand, is what you derive from the liver of the codfish itself. It is a type of fish oil that is very rich in Vitamin A and Vitamin D.

It is also rich in omega-3 fatty acids such as EPA and DHA. For many years now, Cod Oil has become a highly recommended sea-derived oil, and it’s readily available because extracting the oil is very easy.

Krill Oil, Cod Oil, and Technology 

Technological advancements have had a great impact on the improved taste, odor, and the extraction of krill and cod oil.

In the past, these oils were extracted in ways that were harmful to the environment. However, with the help of technologically-aided extraction processes such as enzyme-assisted extraction, supercritical or subcritical extraction, and non-solvent extraction, manufacturers can now extract krill and cod oils in ways that reduce the infusion of harmful chemicals, improve odor and taste, increase the healthy components of the oils, and also significantly reduce the harmful impacts of the extraction process on the environment. 

Health Benefits of Krill Oil and Cod Oil

Note that both Krill Oil and Cod Oil are derived from the marine world and have both been major sources of omega-3 fatty acids since their discovery. Though their supplies vary in quantity and portions, they are both leading sources of supplements for omega-3 fatty acids, antioxidants, and several minerals and vitamins. As for other health benefits, check below to see each benefit and which will suit you better.

Benefits of Krill Oil 

• A Source of Healthy Fat: For many who are after consuming healthy fat, Krill Oil is a good source, according to dieticians and recommendations from the Fitness Tribe.

 Some studies suggest that the body quickly absorbs fat in Krill Oil because the oil is in the form of molecules called phospholipids. Also, the proponents of Krill Oil claim that it is a better source of omega-3 fatty acids than any other fish oil. However, there is a need for more research in this area to evaluate if Krill Oil is a better alternative.

• Improved Heart Health: As a healthy fat type, Krill Oil is effective at improving blood fat levels and also cholesterol levels, as well as reducing the risk of heart-related diseases in the long run.

• Alleviate Arthritis and Joint Pains: Since arthritis and joint pains are results of inflammations in the body, Krill Oil is a viable option for treating symptoms. It helps reduce and improve arthritis and related issues like joint pains, stiffness in the joints and body, pain experienced by patients with rheumatoid or osteoarthritis, and other similar types of inflammations.

 Benefits of Cod Oil

• Healthy Vitamin Supply: Unlike many of its counterparts in the omega-3 fatty acid supplier class, Cod Oil has Vitamin A and D in very reasonable quantities, with about 90% for Vitamin A present in a tablespoon of Cod Oil, and nearly 113% of Vitamin D present in a tablespoon.

With just a tablespoon of Cod Oil, you are getting a supply of the right dosage of Vitamin A for good skin health and healthy eyesight, and Vitamin D for healthy bones.

• Anxiety Reduction: The omega-3 fatty acid component found in Cod Oil, most notably DHA, helps reduce anxiety and depression in adults and adolescents, as well as patients who have Parkinson’s disease.

• Boosts Immunity: The components in Cod Oil, most especially Vitamin A and the omega-3 fatty acids present, help build and improve the immunity of the body system as Vitamin A is a potent antioxidant.

• Diabetes Treatment: A study suggests that pregnant women who consume Cod Oil during pregnancy reduce the risk of their babies having Type 1 diabetes. The same goes for the consumption of Cod Oil during the first year of the baby’s life.

If you wish to know more about Cod Oil, check here for more of its scientifically-backed health benefits:

Conclusion

As sources of omega-3 fatty acids, both Krill Oil and Cod Oil have similar source locations: the ocean. They also share similar health functions such as improving heart health, as well as alleviating inflammations and pains, among other different benefits for each. Apart from their medicinal properties, both oils are a healthy option for consumption and can easily be incorporated into different diets. As a precaution, however, keep in mind to stay away from both Krill and Cod oils if you have seafood allergies.