What is krill?
Krill is a shrimp measuring only a few centimeters and living in Antarctica. Its body is transparent and its organs are luminescent, so it is easy to spot schools of krill in the middle of the water. Krill is part of the usual diet of many animals such as seals, penguins and even whales. His name means “whale food” in Norwegian.
In Russia, Japan and more widely in northern Asia, krill has been consumed for many years, especially in a dried form. Over the past 20 years, krill has been gaining popularity around the world. The oil obtained from this shrimp is increasingly consumed for its benefits on the body: it can act on the brain, the cardiovascular system or even on period-related pain.
What are the benefits of krill?
Krill is rich in omega-3 fatty acids, and more particularly docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) and eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA). DHA and EPA are the healthiest fats to add to the diet. It is in fact essential fatty acidswhich contribute to the proper functioning of the brain and the cardiovascular system.
- We therefore find a high concentration of omega-3 fatty acids in krill oil, which is often compared to cod liver oil, which makes it possible toimprove memory and concentration skillsbut also of prevent a rate of “bad cholesterol” pupilA high level of blood pressure or certain heart diseases.
- These fatty acids also play a role in vision improvement. Krill also contains astaxanthin which effectively attenuates retinal damage while protecting photoreceptors from AMD (age-related macular degeneration).
- The phospholipids in krill oil also have an effect on hormone balance. Its consumption therefore allows women to have a more balanced menstrual cycle and participates in relieving certain disorders such as menstrual pain.
How to consume krill?
When you want to benefit from all the virtues of krill, the ideal is to opt for the oil obtained from these small crustaceans. It is often marketed in the form of capsules to consume in cure as a dietary supplement.
We also find krill in several Japanese dishes, which allows you to benefit from its benefits while cooking these small shrimps which can be very tasty.
Does krill have any contraindications?
The consumption of krill, and more particularly of krill oil, is without contraindication.
It should however be noted that people allergic to seafood and fish can have a reaction following the consumption of krill, because it is a crustacean. In addition, too much krill consumption can cause side effects such as digestive disorders.
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