Postprandial variability in plasma long-chain omega-3 is independent of supplement lipid structure

Postprandial variations in plasma triacylglycerol (TAG) responses to vegetable oils are well established, but their origins remain unclear. This study examined the variability of postprandial plasma long-chain omega-3 fatty acids (LC omega-3) in response to commonly used supplements and foods and considers the biological implications of this variability.

A literature review was conducted to identify postprandial studies that reported variability in plasma LC omega-3 responses to supplementation. Studies were included if variability could be expressed as the coefficient of variation (CV) for the area under the curve (AUC).

Twenty-one studies encompassing 36 different treatments were identified. Supplements included LC omega-3 in the form of TAG, monoacylglycerols (MAG), free fatty acids (FFA), ethyl esters (EE), EE with emulsification agents, and whole foods. Variability was consistently observed across all forms; 65% of treatments showed a CV >50% for the AUC. Gastrointestinal (GI) symptoms were reported in some studies, suggesting possible malabsorption.

Substantial inter-individual variability existed in postprandial LC omega-3 responses, independent of the chemical form of supplementation. This variability likely reflects differences in absorption, enterocyte metabolism, and including malabsorption. Postprandial variability may therefore contribute significantly to observed differences in tissue LC omega-3 status following LC omega-3 supplementation.