GummyTalk Forum

Hey folks, just came across this study (PMID: 12345678) about omega-3 absorption in softgel vs. liquid form. The abstract claims softgels have 40% better bioavailability due to the gelatin matrix protecting from oxidation. But I noticed the study was funded by a major supplement manufacturer. What do you all think - solid science or corporate spin?

Ooh interesting! My kids take the gummy multis but I've been considering fish oil softgels for their focus. Honestly tho, I'm always skeptical of industry-funded stuff. Remember that vitamin C study last year that turned out to be bogus? I'd want to see independent replication before changing our routine. Has anyone tried breaking open softgels to mix with food? My 8-year-old hates swallowing pills lol

I've been making my own softgels for years! The study might have a point about oxidation protection - I use enteric coating on mine to prevent stomach acid breakdown. But yeah, funding source is sus. Check if they disclosed conflicts of interest in the full paper. Pro tip: you can test oxidation yourself with peroxide strips - my homemade ones actually show less rancidity than some store brands after 6 months.

Good points both. @XenonX481 breaking them open defeats the purpose of the protective matrix btw. @VitalVince860 peroxide strips are clever! I dug deeper - three authors are consultants for the funder. The methodology looks sound (randomized, double-blind) but sample size was only 50 people. Might be cherry-picked results. Anyone seen counter-studies?

Ugh consultant ties are red flag city. My holistic ped said most kids don't even need separate omega-3s if they eat wild salmon twice a week (lol as if mine would). Maybe we should wait for the Cochrane review? In the meantime, has anyone compared brands? I'm looking at Nordic Naturals vs. Carlson - both claim third-party testing but who actually verifies that??