Question: I’ve heard that krill oil is a better source of omega-3s for heart health than fish oil. What is your opinion?

Dr. Hibberd's answer:
Krill oil is oil similar to fish oil. The fats in these oils are thought to be beneficial fats that decrease swelling, lower cholesterol, and make blood platelets less sticky so they don’t form clots. Research is still underway to explore benefits of krill oil in conditions such as high cholesterol, premenstrual syndrome, arthritis, stroke, high blood pressure, cancer, and other diseases. Some reports suggest that krill oil is safe for most adults when used appropriately for a short amount of time (up to three months). Certain side-effects similar to fish oils have also been documented such as upset stomach, nausea, and loose stools. Some people also experience a fish-after taste and bad breath. It has been reported unsafe during pregnancy, before surgical procedures, and in people with of seafood allergies. You also need to be cautious if you are already taking blood-thinning drugs, since krill oil would have an additive effect, increasing chances of bruising and bleeding. These medications include aspirin, clopidogrel (Plavix), diclofenac (Voltaren, Cataflam, others), ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin, others), naproxen (Anaprox, Naprosyn, others), dalteparin (Fragmin), enoxaparin (Lovenox), heparin, warfarin (Coumadin), and Orlistat (Xenical, Alli).
Your doctor, who knows your personal health data, is the best person to consult before taking a krill oil supplement.