Gastroenterologist | Gastroenterology Questions Gastroenterologist

Omega 3 not digested?

For a while now I have noticed my omega pills floating in the toilet after a BM. I assumed it was just the shell. Well, it isn’t. The expensive premium omega 3 I have been taking is not being digested at all. I cannot find an answer anyplace.

Female | 48 years old
Complaint duration: 3 months
Medications: Glimperide, metformin, Wellbutrin, atorvastatin, adderall
Conditions: Diabetes, hypothyroid, high cholesterol, no gall bladder

1 Answer

You may have rapid transit of the pill through the GI tract, not allowing time for the pill to break down and release its contents. A good review of your bowel habits and possibly some imaging tests can confirm rapid transit.

On a side note, please be aware that the benefits of omega-3 pills is debatable at best: https://www.health.harvard.edu/blog/omega-3-fatty-acids-and-the-heart-new-evidence-more-questions-2021032422213
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