Oslo, Norway—Krill oil (KO) and its benefits are at the center of a new small-animal study published by Lipids in Heath and Disease.

Led by researchers from University of Bergen and Aker Biomarine ASA, based here, the team observed the effects of KO on cognition and depression in rats, as tested through a light avoidance and forced swimming tests. After seven weeks of taking KO,   the researcher concluded that KO not only exerted antidepressant-esque effects on the rodents, but it also made the learning process significantly easier for them. The group also investigated changes in brain-derived neurotrophic factor (Bdnf) gene expression in the prefrontal cortex and hippocampus; Bdnf nerve growth factor mRNA were upregulated in the hippocampus following supplementation.

Study coordinator Lena Burri, Ph.D., Aker BioMarine’s director of scientific writing, stated: “There is clearly potential for krill oil to aid in the management of depressive disorders, while avoiding sedative effects. The special combination of omega-3 fatty acids in phospholipid form in krill oil might give it a further advantage over other omega-3 sources.”

Published in WholeFoods Magazine, July 2013, (online 5/17/13)