Is It Safe to Take a Fish Oil Capsule With Milk?

Fish oil capsules come in a variety of forms, some of which are more palatable than others. Drinking milk is one possible way to mask the taste and reduce the fishy aftertaste. However, you will still likely have fish oil burps. No evidence available suggests that taking fish oil with milk is harmful, but it might cause digestive issues, particularly if you have a sensitivity to the lactose found in milk. If you want to take a fish oil supplement, consult your doctor first.

The primary benefit of taking fish oil derives from the omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids it contains. Omega-3s are not made by the body and can only be obtained from food. According to the University of Maryland Medical Center, research has shown that when properly administered, omega-3s can help reduce inflammation, which is helpful in maintaining heart health and possibly reducing the risk of some chronic diseases. A wide variety of fish oil supplements are manufactured — some of them healthier than others in terms of purity and total omega-3 content.

Taking fish oil can cause digestive problems, according to Healthline. Depending on your particular digestive system, symptoms could be reduced or enhanced by taking fish oil with milk. In addition, if you are unable to digest lactose — a sugar found in milk — this could further add to digestive discomfort, including symptoms of abdominal bloating, gas and diarrhea. Otherwise, unless you have a specific problem with either fish oil or milk, such as an allergy, taking the two together is not known to be harmful.

Take fish oil with food to help in the digestive process and to reduce any fishy aftertaste. If you have digestive problems when taking fish oil by itself, buying a fish oil that is higher in EPA and DHA — the types of omega-3s found in fish oils — can help. HealthLine suggests that these types of fish oils are purer than standard fish oils, which may contain more contaminants. Fish oil is also available in timed-release capsules, which could help reduce side effects.

The National Institutes of Health indicates that adequate intakes for Omega-3 fatty acids are 1.1 grams for females and 1.6 grams for males. Consult your doctor before taking fish oil supplements, particularly if you are taking them for a specific problem or are taking other medication. According to Drugs.com, fish oil can interact with blood thinners, hormone replacement drugs, birth control pills, diuretics and some cardiac medications. Quality of fish oil capsules can be compromised by prolonged exposure to heat, sunlight or air. If your capsules smell "fishy," they might be rancid and should be replaced.

If you take fish oil with milk and notice any reactions, including digestive problems or allergic-type reactions, don't take either again until you can see a doctor. Your healthcare professional can test for allergies or see if you have any other health issues that might be causing the problem.