Krill Oil Studied for Joint Function

by CP Staff

Recent research has shown that krill oil may be beneficial for improving joint function. The oil from krill, a marine crustacean, is high in the omega-3 fatty acids eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) and contains the potent antioxidant astaxanthin.

Using animals, researchers evaluated the impact of krill oil supplementation on joint health and inflammatory markers. In this new study, genetically susceptible mice with collagen-induced joint issues were fed a standard diet or a diet supplemented with krill oil or fish oil. The mice were evaluated for clinical symptoms such as paw swelling, joint analysis and inflammatory mediators (cytokines) in the blood.

The results of the study showed that the mice supplemented with omega-3 fatty acids in krill oil had a significant improvement in joint function and hind paw swelling compared to the mice fed the standard diet. In the late-phase of the study, only the group receiving krill oil continued to have a reduction in the joint health score. Joint analysis showed that compared to the mice fed the standard diet, the mice fed the diet supplemented with krill oil had decreased infiltration of inflammatory cells into the joint as well as reduced synovial layer hyperplasia (proliferation of cells that line the joint). Krill oil did not affect serum levels of inflammatory mediators.

The researchers concluded that krill oil may be useful in promoting normal joint function.

Reference:

Ierna M, Kerr A, Scales H, Berge K, Griinari M. Supplementation of diet with krill oil protects against experimental rheumatoid arthritis. BMC Musculoskelet Disord. 2010 Jun 29;11:136.