The "Journal of the American College of Nutrition" study also found krill oil to be effective in lowering C-reactive protein, or CRP, in individuals with cardiovascular disease. CRP is a strong predictor of future cardiovascular events. Seventeen of the participants diagnosed with cardiovascular disease were provided a placebo, while 17 others received 300 g krill oil. The CRP levels of those receiving krill oil decreased by 30.9 percent after 40 days. Those receiving the placebo had increased CRP levels.
Findings from a study conducted at McGill University in Montreal indicate that krill oil helps lower (bad) cholesterol levels. The study examined 120 patients who were diagnosed with high cholesterol. Participants were divided into four groups: Group A was given .5 - 1.5 grams of krill oil daily; Group B was given 2 - 3 grams of krill oil daily; Group C was given 3 grams of fish oil daily and Group D was given a placebo. Findings revealed that patients taking just 500 mg of krill oil daily achieved 300 % improvement in cholesterol levels compared to patients taking 3 grams of fish oil.
The results of a study published in the American Journal of Nutrition highlighted the effects of krill oil on chronic inflammation and arthritic symptoms. The study was conducted by Western University in collaboration with McMaster University. Participants included 90 patients who were diagnosed with inflammatory conditions such as cardiovascular disease, rheumatoid arthritis and / or osteoarthritis. Findings revealed that krill oil reduced pain by 28.9%, stiffness by 20.3% and functional impairment by 22.8%. Moreover, results indicated that krill oil "significantly inhibits inflammation and reduces arthritic symptoms within a short treatment period of 7 and 14 days."
Parris Kidd reported in the March 2009 "Alternative Medicine Review" that krill oil is believed to help "quench" inflammation in stroke patients as it was shown to be effective in lowering C-reactive protein. C-reactive protein, or CRP, is a known biomarker for chronic inflammation and a predictor of stroke re-occurrence.
A study at the University of California, Berkley, suggests that low levels of Omega 3s, particularly DHA and EPA may contribute to cognitive decline. Findings indicate that regular consumption of Omega 3s, especially sources rich in EPA and DHA (such as krill oil), can considerably improve cognitive function. Moreover, a study of 30 adults with attention difficulties showed 46% improvement in mental concentration and 48.9 % mental focus after 90 days of taking krill oil supplements. Furthermore, krill oil contains the powerful antioxidant astaxanthin, which has the rare ability to cross the blood brain barrier and rid the body of free radicals that can lead to cognitive impairment.
