Effect of krill oil on muscle strength in middle-aged adults

The Effect of Krill Oil Supplementation on Muscle Function and Mass in Middle-aged Adults: A Randomised Controlled Trial

Not applicable Interventional University of Glasgow · NCT06005064

This study is testing if taking krill oil for six months can help middle-aged adults build muscle strength and mass compared to those taking vegetable oil.

Quick facts

PhaseNot applicable
Study typeInterventional
Enrollment92 (estimated)
Ages35 Years to 60 Years
SexAll
SponsorUniversity of Glasgow Academic / other
Locations1 site (Glasgow)
Trial IDNCT06005064 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this trial studies

This study investigates the impact of a 6-month supplementation of krill oil on muscle strength and mass in middle-aged adults aged 35 to 60. Participants will be randomly assigned to receive either krill oil or vegetable oil to assess the effectiveness of krill oil in enhancing muscle function. The hypothesis is that krill oil will lead to significant improvements in muscle strength and mass compared to the control group. The study aims to provide insights into dietary interventions for combating sarcopenia in this age group.

Who should consider this trial

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this study are middle-aged adults aged 35 to 60 with a BMI of less than 35 kg/m2.

Not a fit: Patients with diabetes, severe cardiovascular disease, or those who regularly consume oily fish may not benefit from this study.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this study could provide a novel dietary approach to improve muscle strength and mass in middle-aged adults, potentially reducing the risk of sarcopenia.

How similar studies have performed: While there is limited research specifically on krill oil for muscle strength, similar studies on omega-3 fatty acids have shown positive effects on muscle health, suggesting potential for success.

Eligibility criteria

Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria:

* Be 35-60 years old
* Have a BMI of less than 35kg/m2

Exclusion Criteria:

* People with diabetes, severe cardiovascular disease, seizure disorders, uncontrolled hypertension (\>150/90mmHg at baseline measurement), cancer or cancer that has been in remission \<5 years, ambulatory impairments which would limit the ability to perform assessments of muscle function, dementia, on anticoagulant therapy, and/or taking medication known to affect muscle (e.g., steroids).
* People who have allergies to seafood, and/or regular consumption of more than 1 portion of oily fish per week.
* People who perform regular (\>1 day/week) resistance exercise training.

Where this trial is running

Glasgow

How to participate

  1. Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
  2. Visit the official trial page on ClinicalTrials.gov for the most current contact information and recruitment status.
  3. Contact the listed study coordinator or principal investigator to request pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.
Conditions SarcopeniaKrill oilMuscle strengthMuscle massMiddle-aged
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.