Krill oil (plus B vitamins, soy and rosemary) relieves PMS: Pilot study

24-Apr-2014 - Last updated on 28-Apr-2014 at 09:48 GMT

“Other products targeting PMS, like Evening Primrose Oil, tend to benefit individual symptoms of PMS rather than address the majority of symptoms that contribute to the syndrome..."

Krill oil supplementation can relieve pre-menstrual stress disorder (PMS), according to a small pilot study.

The 3-month study with 29 women was carried out by researcher and health consultant, Mike Wakeman, to assess the effectiveness of Novabrand’s krill oil, Cleanmarine, at reducing PMS symptoms.

The product also contained thiamine (vitamin B1), riboflavin (B2), pyridoxine (B6), soy isoflavones and rosemary extract.

Results showed symptoms steadily decreased as the trial progressed but returned after the course ended.

Overall anxiety decreased by 70%, bloating 69%, breast tenderness 81%, skin outbreaks 69%, cravings 59%, fatigue 60%, forgetfulness 77%, insomnia 62% and headaches by 70%. Maximum benefit was noted at 90 days.

Wakeman, who works with the School of Cancer Sciences at the University of Birmingham, along with the UK firm, Lifespan Essential Ltd, said: “Other products targeting PMS, like Evening Primrose Oil, tend to benefit individual symptoms of PMS rather than address the majority of symptoms that contribute to the syndrome, for example evening primrose specifically benefits breast pain. This formula has been put together to try to relieve more symptoms.

“The formulation of Cleanmarine was based on a literature review looking at other ingredients that would complement krill oil in relieving the most troublesome symptoms of PMS, so the formula has a highly evidence-based rationale.”

Some studies have shown eicosapentanoic acid (EPA) and docosahexanoic acid (DHA)-rich krill has raised bioavailability due to its double-chain phospholipid structure and astaxanthin content.

Scientific research shows krill and other omega-3s are important for brain, heart, eye health, with emerging data showing its importance in areas like skin and mood.

Cleanmarine is certified by the Marine Stewardship Council (MSC), a group that has certified the Antarctic krill fishery as sustainable.

Wakeman is speaking about heart health research at Vitafoods in Geneva on May 7.

Source:

Nutrition and Dietary Supplements

September 2013

‘An open-label pilot study to assess the effectiveness of krill oil with added vitamins and phytonutrients in the relief of symptoms of PMS’

Author: Mike Wakeman