Krill Oil vs Fish Oil for Heart Health Benefits

With cardiovascular diseases the leading global cause of death, choosing the right supplement matters.

In 2026, more people want to know which oil best supports cardiovascular health, so this guide gives evidence-based answers.

More scientific research has shown the benefits of fish oil, but other studies indicate that krill oil may achieve higher plasma levels of EPA and DHA than fish oil at equal doses.

Key Takeaways

What Are Krill Oil and Fish Oil? A Quick Introduction

Both krill oil and fish oil are natural sources of omega-3 fatty acids, specifically EPA (eicosapentaenoic acid) and DHA (docosahexaenoic acid). These two fatty acids are the ones most closely linked to cardiovascular health support, according to extensive research.

Fish oil is extracted from the tissue of oily fish such as mackerel, sardines, and anchovies. It has been widely used as a supplement for decades and is among the most studied nutritional products.

Krill oil is sourced from Antarctic krill. Its omega-3s are bound in phospholipids. This drives much of the debate over heart health between krill oil and fish oil, as phospholipids can help to make EPA and DHA more bioavailable.

How to Compare Krill Oil vs Fish Oil for Heart Health Benefits: The Core Science

The primary reason to take either supplement for heart health is to increase your intake of EPA and DHA. Research from the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) confirms that DHA and EPA contribute to the normal function of the heart when consumed as part of a balanced diet. (Source: EFSA Scientific Opinion on DHA and EPA)

Both oils deliver EPA and DHA, but the body processes them differently. This distinction is key to cardiovascular health.

Here are the main areas where the two oils differ when supporting heart health:

• Bioavailability (how well the body absorbs and uses the omega-3s)
• Antioxidant content (krill's natural astaxanthin provides additional protection)

Bioavailability: Why Krill Oil May Be Absorbed More Efficiently Than Fish Oil

Bioavailability is a key factor in comparing krill oil and fish oil for heart health, as it determines how much omega-3 your body absorbs and uses.

Krill oil's omega-3s are carried in a phospholipid structure. Phospholipids are the same molecules that make up our cell membranes, and research suggests this makes them easier for the body to transport and absorb. A study published in Lipids in Health and Disease found that omega-3 absorption was significantly greater from krill oil than from fish oil at equivalent doses. (Source: Lipids in Health and Disease, Ulven et al., 2011)

DHA and EPA contribute to the normal function of the heart. A beneficial effect is obtained with a daily intake of EPA and DHA.
- European Food Safety Authority (EFSA)

Astaxanthin: The Added Antioxidant Advantage of Krill Oil

Beyond omega-3s, krill oil contains astaxanthin, a natural antioxidant. This carotenoid pigment, responsible for the pink colour in krill and flamingos, may help protect omega-3s from oxidation and provide broader health benefits.

Oxidative stress and inflammation contribute to cardiovascular disease, so this antioxidant may add heart protection beyond what fish oil offers.

Best for Specific Needs: Which Omega-3 Oil Should You Choose?

The best choice depends on your health goals, lifestyle, and budget. Here’s our guide to help you decide between krill and fish oil for heart health.

Try a krill oil supplement if you:

• Have experienced fishy burps with standard fish oil in the past; some studies show people may experience fewer with krill oil.
• Want the added benefit of natural astaxanthin antioxidants.
• Are you looking for potentially higher omega-3 absorption per milligram?

Choose fish oil if you:

• Are you managing a budget carefully and need a cost-effective omega-3 source?
• Want a highly studied, well-established supplement with decades of clinical research.
• Prefer a higher-strength capsule (such as our 1000mg option) for a concentrated dose.
• Are not concerned about the taste.

It is also worth noting that cod liver oil offers a third option. Our Cod Liver Oil 1000mg provides omega-3 fatty acids alongside naturally occurring Vitamins A and D, making it a popular traditional choice for broader health support, including joints and immunity.

What the Research Says in 2026: Trends in Krill Oil vs Fish Oil

In 2026, consumer interest in krill oil continues to grow. The global krill oil supplements market is projected to increase, driven largely by the bioavailability advantages.

Fish oil, however, remains the most widely used omega-3 supplement worldwide, backed by the broadest body of clinical evidence accumulated over several decades. The NHS and major health bodies continue to recommend omega-3 intake, whether through diet or supplementation, for general cardiovascular wellbeing.

The ongoing research trend in 2026 is towards personalised supplementation, with more people choosing based on their specific tolerance, budget, and health targets rather than following a one-size-fits-all approach.

Our Woods Health Omega-3 Range:

We have been helping people support their health since 1981, and our omega-3 range reflects the values we have always held: quality ingredients and prices that do not force you to choose between your health and your wallet.

Our omega-3 products are sustainably/responsibly sourced. And our fish oils are formulated to be easy to swallow, with EPA and DHA clearly listed so you know exactly what you are taking.

Here is a brief overview of our relevant range:

• Krill Oil 500mg - Contains 450mg essential fish oils and 85mg krill oil.
• Omega-3 Pure Fish Oil 500mg - A high-quality fish oil for daily EPA and DHA intake.
• Omega-3 Fish Oil 1000mg - Maximum strength for those who want a higher dose per capsule.
• Cod Liver Oil 1000mg - A traditional omega-3 source with added Vitamins A and D.

You can browse our full supplement range on our all products page to find the right option for your needs.

Conclusion: Which Is Best When You Compare Krill Oil vs Fish Oil for Heart Health Benefits?

When you compare krill oil vs fish oil for heart health benefits, honestly and carefully, both have earned their place as genuinely useful supplements. The research supports both the delivery of EPA and DHA, the omega-3 fatty acids most closely associated with heart function.

If you prioritise higher absorption, fewer digestive side effects, and added antioxidant protection, a krill oil supplement is the stronger choice based on the available evidence. If you want a cost-effective, high-strength, well-studied omega-3 source, fish oil (particularly our 1000mg option) delivers excellent value.

What’s important is to begin increasing your omega-3 intake—whether through your diet or by taking a supplement. Most UK adults do not consume enough oily fish to meet the recommended daily intake. A good quality omega-3 supplement, whether krill or fish oil, is one of the most practical things you can do to support your heart health.

Consult your GP before starting any new supplement, particularly if you have a diagnosed health condition or take prescription medication.

References:

Attri, N., et al. (2024) Health promoting benefits of krill oil: mechanisms, bioactive combinations, and advanced encapsulation technologies. Food Science and Biotechnology, 34(6), 1285–1308.

Weitz, D, et al. (2010) Fish Oil for the Treatment of Cardiovascular Disease. Cardiology in Review, 18(5), p258-263.

Ramprasath, V. R., et al. (2015) Supplementation of krill oil with high phospholipid content increases sum of EPA and DHA in erythrocytes compared with low phospholipid krill oil. Lipids in Health and Disease, 4(14), 142.

Berge, K., et al. (2014) Krill oil supplementation lowers serum triglycerides without increasing low-density lipoprotein cholesterol in adults with borderline high or high triglyceride levels. Nutrition Research, 34(2) 126-133.

Nestel, P. J. (2000) Fish oil and cardiovascular disease: lipids and arterial function. The American Journal of Clinical Nutrition, 7(1), 228S-231S