Fish oil absorption: OK to take with coffee/soda?

Question

I've heard that when taking fish oil supplements, you should take it with a fatty meal to trigger bile release for the fat absorption, and also to provide energy so the fish oils aren't used for energy themeselves.

My question is whether drinking something very acidic, like a very large cup of coffee or soda along with the fish oil and meal would in any way affect the integrity or absorption of the fish oil.

Answer 1

The hydrochloric acid produced by your stomach during digestion is a much stronger acid than anything found in coffee or sodas. Therefore, as long as your meal contains about 10 grams of fat to stimulate bile secretion from the gallbladder, you should be fine.

You might also consider drinking WATER with your meals - this is much healthier for you than the other liquids.

Best wishes and good luck.

Answer 2

When they suggest a fatty meal, they're just saying don't take your fish oil caps with half an orange and a piece of dry toast. Take it with the heaviest meal of the day, one with meat, eggs, sauteed food or a buttered potato.

A large cup of coffee or soda is going to upset your digestion -- of everything, not just fish oil.

Oils are rather difficult to break down. Some things that aid the digestion of fats are bitter foods (which stimulate bile production) like strong-flavored greens or "digestive bitters" made from herbs, or Lipase, a digestive enzyme available in a capsule from the health foods store.

BTW, coffee is a "bitter" and a few sips can actually aid digestion of fats.