Krill Oil Supplements May Preserve Muscle Strength and Mass During Weight Loss: Study

Supplementing with krill oil during periods of weight loss may help reduce declines of muscle mass and strength, according to a study led by the University of Glasgow’s school of medicine, dentistry, and nursing. The findings, published in Obesity, are the first of their kind investigating the effects of krill oil on muscle during weight loss.

The findings come at a time when there is increased attention paid to the health implications of rapid weight reduction as a result of GLP-1 receptor agonists. A leading concern is loss of muscle mass, and the resulting impacts on metabolic health, physical function, and long-term weight maintenance.

“While losing weight is often a good thing, one of the unintended consequences is that we don’t only lose fat, but we also lose muscle,” said Stuart Gray, PhD, professor at the University of Glasgow and study co-author. “In this study we have found that krill oil can help to preserve our muscle mass and strength as we lose weight. As maintenance of muscle is very important for our overall health and quality of life, these are extremely exciting findings.”

Study Details

In the study, 41 adults between the ages of 25 and 65 with an above-average BMI were randomized to receive either a placebo or a 4-gram krill oil supplement marketed by Aker BioMarine as Superba Boost, before and during a weight loss period.

During the weight loss period, participants consumed no more than 500 calories during a two-hour window. On eating days, participants were allowed to eat normally, but were told to avoid overeating.

Compared to placebo, those who took krill oil supplements had:

• A lower loss of muscle mass and handgrip strength;
• Reduced amount of time to rise out of a chair;
• A greater reduction in systolic blood pressure;
• A higher amount of EPA and DHA and omega-3 index.

“We are pleased to continue our work with the University of Glasgow to further explore krill oil and its positive effects on muscle mass and function,” said Line Johnsen, SVP of human health ingredients R&D for Aker BioMarine. “We have previously conducted scientific studies with Dr. Gray and his team to show how the important nutrients found in krill impact muscle strength and mass with age, and this follow-up study helps strengthen our understanding of this area.”