How To Avoid Fish Oil Burps
Fish oil burps—the unpleasant fishy aftertaste or burping that can follow taking omega-3 supplements—are common, but very manageable. Here’s how to avoid them:
✅ 1. Choose High-Quality Fish Oil
- Look for:
- Enteric-coated capsules – these dissolve in the intestines instead of the stomach, reducing burps.
- Triglyceride form (not ethyl ester) – easier to digest and less likely to cause aftertaste.
- Brands that claim “burp-free” or “odorless” formulas.
🕒 2. Take It With Food
- Taking fish oil with a meal, especially one containing fat, helps digestion and minimizes reflux.
- Avoid taking it on an empty stomach.
🧊 3. Freeze Your Capsules
- Put the fish oil capsules in the freezer for a few hours before taking them.
- This slows their breakdown in the stomach, reducing the chance of burping.
🥤 4. Swallow Capsules Whole (Don’t Chew)
- Chewing or letting capsules dissolve in your mouth releases the fishy oil early—swallow quickly with water.
🔄 5. Consider Liquid Alternatives or Algae-Based Omega-3s
- Some liquid fish oils are flavored (e.g., lemon or orange) and easier to tolerate.
- Algae-based omega-3s (vegan) contain DHA and EPA without the fishy smell or taste.
⚠️ 6. Adjust Your Dose
- If you’re taking a large amount, try splitting the dose throughout the day.
- Too much at once increases the chance of reflux.
🧪 7. Store Properly
- Keep capsules in a cool, dark place (or refrigerate) to prevent them from going rancid.
- Expired or oxidized fish oil is more likely to smell and cause burps.