Is fish oil most effective when taken orally? A comparison of absorption rates on an empty stomach vs after a meal!

Fish oil supplements have become a popular health choice for Hong Kong people in recent years. Whether you are concerned about cardiovascular health, brain development, or anti-inflammatory repair, Omega-3 fatty acids are indispensable. However, is fish oil most effective when taken on an empty stomach or after a meal? It turns out that the absorption rate can differ by up to 2 times! This time, WHC nutritionists will break down the golden rules for taking fish oil correctly to help you maximize your health benefits.

Why supplement with fish oil?

Fish oil is rich in EPA and DHA , which are important omega-3 fatty acids that the human body cannot synthesize on its own. They help lower blood lipids, fight inflammation, and improve brain and vision development. They are very important for cardiovascular, joint, and brain health. However, Hong Kong people generally do not consume enough fish oil in their daily diet, so many people choose to take fish oil supplements.

Eating on an empty stomach vs eating after a meal: the absorption rate is very different!

• Taking fish oil on an empty stomach: The intestines lack fat stimulation, and fish oil is difficult to fully emulsify and absorb. Some nutrients will be discharged from the intestines, and the absorption rate is only about 20-30% .
• Take fish oil after meals: When eaten with fat-containing foods (such as breakfast), the intestines will secrete bile to help digest fat. The fish oil can be fully emulsified and the absorption rate can be as high as 60-70%, even 2 times higher than on an empty stomach!

According to nutritional research, fish oil is a fat-soluble nutrient and needs to be eaten with fat to be effectively absorbed by the intestines.

Nutritionist's advice: The correct way to take fish oil

• It is recommended to take it after meals: It is best to take it after a meal containing an appropriate amount of healthy fats, such as olive oil salad, avocado, nuts, etc., which can further improve the absorption rate.
• Avoid taking fish oil on an empty stomach or with only water: If taken on an empty stomach, the fish oil will be easily wasted and its effect will be greatly reduced.
• Choose high-purity, tested fish oil products: Pay attention to whether the product has passed heavy metal and contaminant tests to ensure safety.
• If you have a sensitive stomach, you can take it in small doses at several times: Some people are more sensitive to fish oil and can take the daily dose in two meals to reduce gastrointestinal discomfort.