Which krill oil is best for lowering cholesterol?

November 28, 2025 •

4 min read

Research has shown that krill oil can help manage cholesterol and triglyceride levels, thanks to its rich content of omega-3 fatty acids EPA and DHA. This article explores which krill oil is best for lowering cholesterol by evaluating key supplement factors and top brands for optimal cardiovascular support.

Quick Summary

Understand how krill oil's unique phospholipid structure and astaxanthin content aid in managing cholesterol levels. This article evaluates top brands and crucial factors to select the most effective supplement for your heart health needs.

Key Points

Bioavailability Advantage: Krill oil’s omega-3s are bound to phospholipids, which may make them easier for the body to absorb and utilize compared to fish oil.
Check EPA/DHA Levels: For effective cholesterol management, choose a supplement with adequate levels of the omega-3 fatty acids EPA and DHA.
Astaxanthin is Key: Look for krill oil with astaxanthin, a powerful antioxidant that protects the omega-3s and offers additional anti-inflammatory benefits.
Verify Third-Party Testing: Always choose krill oil supplements that are third-party tested for purity and potency to ensure quality and safety.
Consider Sustainability: Select brands with MSC certification, demonstrating responsible and sustainable sourcing of Antarctic krill.
Consult a Professional: Always discuss appropriate usage for your health goals with a healthcare provider.

Understanding How Krill Oil Affects Cholesterol

Before starting any new supplement regimen, especially for managing cholesterol, it is essential to consult with a healthcare provider. The information provided here is for general knowledge and should not be taken as medical advice. While fish oil has long been the go-to omega-3 supplement, krill oil has emerged as a powerful contender, particularly concerning cholesterol and triglyceride management. The primary reason for this lies in the unique way krill oil packages its omega-3 fatty acids, specifically eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA). In fish oil, these fatty acids are bound to triglycerides, a form that requires more processing by the body. In contrast, krill oil's omega-3s are predominantly bound to phospholipids, the building blocks of our cell membranes.

The Phospholipid Advantage

This phospholipid-bound structure is believed to be more bioavailable, meaning the body can absorb and utilize the omega-3s more efficiently. This potentially enhanced absorption means you may achieve desired cholesterol-lowering effects with a smaller amount of krill oil compared to fish oil. Studies suggest that krill oil can significantly lower total cholesterol and triglycerides, while also increasing "good" HDL cholesterol. The mechanism involves not only the potent omega-3s but also other beneficial compounds present in krill oil.

The Role of Astaxanthin

Another key differentiator is krill oil's naturally occurring antioxidant, astaxanthin, which gives krill oil its vibrant red color. Astaxanthin has powerful anti-inflammatory properties and helps protect the omega-3s from oxidation, ensuring the supplement remains potent and fresh. While more research is needed on astaxanthin's direct impact on cholesterol, its overall anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects are beneficial for cardiovascular health and can support the cholesterol-regulating actions of EPA and DHA.

Key Factors for Choosing a Krill Oil Supplement

When selecting a krill oil to help manage your cholesterol, consider these essential factors:

Potency of EPA and DHA: Check the supplement label for the combined amount of EPA and DHA per serving. While krill oil offers better bioavailability, you still need an adequate amount of these essential fatty acids.
Phospholipid Content: Higher phospholipid concentration can indicate better absorption. Some brands, like those using SuperbaBoost®, highlight their enhanced phospholipid levels.
Presence of Astaxanthin: Look for products that list a specific astaxanthin content, as this powerful antioxidant offers additional benefits and protects the oil's stability.
Sustainability and Sourcing: The Antarctic krill fishery is one of the most sustainably managed in the world, and many reputable brands voluntarily obtain certifications to prove their commitment. Look for Marine Stewardship Council (MSC) certification to ensure the product is responsibly sourced.
Third-Party Testing: Since the FDA does not regulate supplements, third-party certifications from organizations like NSF or testing by independent labs like Labdoor confirm the product's purity, potency, and quality.
No Fishy Aftertaste: Many krill oil supplements come with enteric coating or natural flavorings (like vanilla or lemon) to prevent the notorious "fishy burps" often associated with fish oil.

Comparison of Popular Krill Oil Brands


Feature	NatureMyst Krill Oil	Kori Krill Oil	1MD Nutrition KrillMD	MegaRed Krill Oil
Total Krill Oil	1,000mg	1,200mg	1,600mg	Varies (e.g., 500mg)
Total Omega-3	340mg (230mg EPA, 110mg DHA)	250mg (EPA & DHA undisclosed)	320mg (174mg EPA, 120mg DHA)	Varies
Phospholipids	450mg	480mg	550mg	Contained in phospholipid form
Astaxanthin	1,500mcg	120mcg	2,000mcg	Contained (not always specified)
Key Certifications	Friend of the Sea, GMP Certified	Superba 2 krill, multiple certifications, transparent	GMP Certified, non-GMO	Well-known, but testing transparency varies
Notes	High potency, lower cost, enteric coated capsules	Strong focus on sustainability, superior absorption claims	Most potent option, higher astaxanthin, often more expensive	Widely available, ranges in strength

How to Use Krill Oil for Cholesterol Reduction

To maximize the cholesterol-lowering benefits of krill oil, follow these usage tips:

Consult a Doctor: Before starting any new supplement, especially if you are on cholesterol-lowering medication, it is crucial to consult your healthcare provider. They can help determine the appropriate approach for your specific needs and monitor your progress.
Take with a Meal: Taking krill oil with a meal, particularly one containing some dietary fat, can enhance the absorption of EPA and DHA. This can also help minimize any potential digestive discomfort.
Be Consistent: The benefits of omega-3 supplementation, including the effects on cholesterol, are not immediate. Consistent, long-term use is necessary to see significant changes in your lipid profile.

For more detailed information on krill oil's mechanism of action, refer to studies like this one published by the National Institutes of Health: Krill oil supplementation lowers serum triglycerides without increasing low-density lipoprotein cholesterol in adults with borderline high or high triglyceride levels.

Conclusion

The best krill oil for lowering cholesterol is not a one-size-fits-all answer but depends on several key factors, including potency, bioavailability, and sourcing. By prioritizing supplements with adequate levels of EPA and DHA delivered in a phospholipid form, along with verifiable third-party testing and sustainability, you can make an informed choice. Brands like NatureMyst and 1MD Nutrition KrillMD offer high potency, while Kori Krill Oil is noted for its transparency and sustainable practices. Ultimately, a potent, pure, and bioavailable supplement, combined with a healthy diet and lifestyle, provides the most effective approach to supporting healthy cholesterol levels and overall heart health.

Disclaimer: This information is for general knowledge and should not be taken as medical advice. Always consult with a qualified healthcare professional before starting any new supplement regimen.

Frequently Asked Questions

Some studies suggest that krill oil may be more effective at a lower amount than fish oil for managing cholesterol and triglyceride levels due to its superior bioavailability from phospholipid-bound omega-3s. However, research findings are mixed and more studies are needed for a definitive conclusion.

Look for the amount of EPA and DHA, the total phospholipid content, and the presence of astaxanthin. Additionally, check for third-party certifications like the Marine Stewardship Council (MSC) for sustainability and independent testing logos for purity.

Krill oil is generally well-tolerated. Some people may experience minor digestive issues, such as a fishy aftertaste or upset stomach. Those with shellfish allergies should avoid krill oil.

The benefits of krill oil on cholesterol are not immediate. They develop with consistent, long-term use. A meta-analysis found significant improvements in lipid levels after 12 weeks of supplementation.

You should always consult your doctor before combining krill oil with any medication, especially statins or other cholesterol-lowering drugs. Krill oil can also have blood-thinning effects, so medical supervision is important if you are on anticoagulants or preparing for surgery.

Yes, krill oil is effective at lowering high triglyceride levels when used appropriately. Consulting a healthcare professional can help determine the best approach for managing triglycerides.

Krill oil is typically sourced from Antarctic krill, a tiny crustacean. Responsible sourcing is important, and many reputable brands adhere to strict sustainability standards, often evidenced by certifications like the Marine Stewardship Council (MSC).