Study: Nordic Naturals omega-3 effervescent absorbed faster

WATSONVILLE, Calif. — A research study conducted earlier this year on two Nordic Naturals arctic cod liver oil products concluded that the effervescent formulation is absorbed more rapidly than gelatin soft gels, and suggested that the effervescent form is equally palatable, making it an acceptable alternative to the soft gel form.

According to Joar Opheim, Nordic Naturals CEO, "This new [effervescent] delivery system for omega-3 fish oil tastes great and provides an opportunity for increased compliance among consumers,” Opheim stated. “Plus, the product offers faster absorption as a key benefit."

A total of 30 subjects between the ages of 21 and 60 years completed the study. Blood samples were drawn hourly after the fish oil preparations were taken. The average time to maximum concentration of eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) was shorter for the effervescent preparation group (2.7 hours) than for the soft gel group (3.5 hours), a 23% reduction in absorption time.

Significant change from EPA and DHA absorption was noted as early as 1.5 hours after intake of the effervescent, while the change in absorption for the soft gel occurred 4.5 hours after intake. Overall amounts of EPA and DHA absorbed were similar for both preparations.

The study was conducted by Gerald Tramontano at Exodon Clinical Research Unit in Mt. Arlington, N.J.