Triglycerides Versus Ethyl Esters: Fact or Fiction?

FACT: Researchers in Norway found that when 14 healthy male volunteers took equivalent amounts of omega-3 as ethyl esters or glycerol esters (triglyceride form), the absorption from both forms of omega-3 was just as good. As reported in the medical journal, “Thus, after administration twice daily for 14 days, the amounts of EPA and DHA in total serum lipids and in serum phospholipids were essentially identical for the two ester forms of the n-3 fatty acids.” [i]

FACT: Another human study comparing the absorption of omega-3 fatty acids in the form of ethyl esters or triglycerides, showed that both were well absorbed and had produced results. According to the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition, “This study showed that n-3 fatty acids in fish oil given as ethyl esters or triglycerides were equally well absorbed.”[ii]

FACT: A 14 day study of 101 people taking 5.1 grams per day of the omega-3 fatty acids EPA and DHA as ethyl esters showed beneficial results. The beneficial metabolites of fish oils are the omega-3 fatty acids EPA and DHA. Results are dependent on the amount of omega-3 fatty acids (EPA/DHA) consumed. [iii]

Res-Q 1250 offers an ethyl ester form of omega-3 which is appropriate for encapsulation (Res-Q 1250 Capsules), and a triglyceride form (Res-Q 1250 Liquid) which is appropriate for a liquid product. Both products are equally effective. Both products are formulated to provide similar levels of EPA/DHA which is necessary for desired results, and to last just as long when taken as directed, providing the same economic value to our customers.

Contact us at 1-800-26-ALIVE or sales@n3inc.com

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Supporting Research:

[i] The enteral bioavailability of eicosapentaenoic acid and docosahexaenoic acid is as good from ethyl esters as from glyceryl esters in spite of lower hydrolytic rates by pancreatic lipase in vitro. Biochim Biophys Acta 1993 May 20;1168(1):59-67

[ii] Absorption of the n-3 eicosapentaenoic and docosahexaenoic acids as ethyl esters and triglycerides by humans. American Journal of Clinical Nutrition, 1991 Vol 53, 1185-1190

[iii] The bioavailability and pharmacodynamics of different concentrations of omega-3 acid ethyl esters. Prostaglandins Leukot Essent Fatty Acids. 2006 Jul;75(1):19-24. Epub 2006 Jun 27