Omega-3 supplements provide a wealth of benefits, but people sometimes experience nausea and fish burp when taking them. As a result, omega-3 products often have an enteric coating, which inhibits the breakdown of the capsule in the stomach, and instead, it dissolves in the small intestine.
Omega-3s
Fat is often viewed as the evil macronutrient, but it’s responsible for protecting vital organs and fueling hormone production. In addition, it stimulates bile and makes up the walls of cell membranes. Although fat is required for survival, certain fats are healthier than others. Omega-3 fatty acids are healthy fats that include docosahexaenoic acid, or DHA, eicosapentaenoic acid, or EPA, and alpha-linolenic acid, or ALA. These polyunsaturated fats can’t be manufactured in the body and thus must be obtained through diet or omega-3 supplements, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center.
Similarities and Differences
The only similarities between coated and uncoated omega-3s is that they both usually contain the same amount of omega-3s and both offer known health benefits. However, there are several differences, according to Vin Kutty of Omegavia. Enteric coating is a coating that is placed over omega-3 products to prevent breakdown in the stomach. Coated omega-3s may help prevent "fish burps" since they dissolve in the small intestine and not the stomach.
ALA
Enteric coating might be more effective than non-enteric coating for increasing blood levels of the omega-3 fatty acid ALA, according to a study conducted by researchers at KGK Synergize. Researchers assigned healthy subjects 6 grams of coated or uncoated perilla seed oil, a rich source of ALA. ALA levels were measured before and after treatment. Researchers found that enteric-coated perilla seed oil increased blood levels of ALA higher than those who consumed uncoated perilla seed oil. This suggests that enteric coating promotes better absorption than non-coated.
Interactions
If you experienced any complications from omega-3 supplements, such as bloating, nausea and fish burp, you could opt for enteric-coated capsules. On the other hand, stick with non-enteric coated capsules if you don’t have any side effects. Consult your health care provider before taking either one, since both may interact with medications, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center.
Member Comments