Does Fish Oil Break A Fast? The Ultimate Guide to Fasting and Fish Oil

Fasting has become a popular health trend in recent years as it is believed to have numerous benefits such as weight loss, improved blood sugar levels, and better insulin sensitivity. However, even with the proliferation of information about fasting, there are still many questions surrounding what can be consumed without breaking a fast.

One hotly debated topic is whether or not fish oil breaks a fast. Fish oil supplements have gained popularity for their potential benefits such as reducing inflammation, improving brain function, and supporting heart health. But can taking fish oil during a fast affect your results?

“Fasting requires discipline, but knowing what you can and cannot consume without breaking your fast is equally important.” -Unknown

In this ultimate guide to fasting and fish oil, we seek to address all your questions and concerns about this contentious issue by taking an evidence-based approach. We will delve into what constitutes a fast, examine the ingredients in fish oil supplements, explore how they may impact fasting, and provide recommendations on what to do based on current research and expert opinions.

If you’re someone who’s looking to incorporate fish oil into your life while still reaping the benefits of fasting, keep reading. By the end of this article, you’ll be armed with the knowledge necessary to make informed decisions about consuming fish oil during a fast.

Understanding Fasting

What is Fasting?

Fasting is the practice of abstaining from food and sometimes drink for a specific period. It has been practiced for centuries and is often associated with religious traditions.

In recent years, fasting has also gained popularity as a method for weight loss, improving metabolic health, controlling blood sugar levels, and boosting cognitive function.

Types of Fasting

• Intermittent fasting: involves restricting food intake for a certain number of hours per day or week, such as eating only during an 8-hour window each day.
• Water fasting: involves consuming only water for a specified duration, ranging from several days to weeks.
• Juice fasting: involves drinking only vegetable or fruit juice for a set period, usually up to a few days.
• Partial fasting: restricts certain foods, such as by only eating fruits and vegetables, while eliminating processed foods and animal products.

Benefits of Fasting

Fasting has been linked to various health benefits, including improved insulin sensitivity, reduced inflammation, and better brain function. Some studies have shown that fasting can even increase lifespan.

One review of clinical trials found that fasting can help people lose weight, lower blood pressure and cholesterol levels, and reduce the risk of chronic diseases like diabetes and heart disease.

Moreover, many people report feeling increased energy and mental clarity during fasts, which can boost productivity and concentration.

Challenges of Fasting

Fasting can be challenging for some individuals, particularly those who are not accustomed to going without food for extended periods. It can cause hunger pangs, headaches, and low energy levels.

Additionally, those with certain medical conditions, such as diabetes or hypoglycemia, should be careful when fasting and consult their healthcare provider before beginning any fasts.

“Fasting is a way of being in control of your body rather than letting your body control you.” – Jason Fung

Does Fish Oil Break A Fast?

Fish oil supplements contain calories, which could theoretically break a fast if consumed in large enough quantities. However, the amount of calories in most fish oil capsules is typically very small – around 9 to 13 calories per serving.

As such, taking one or two fish oil capsules during a fast is unlikely to have a significant impact on metabolism or insulin levels.

That said, it’s always best to err on the side of caution and consume nothing except water while fasting to ensure that all the potential benefits are realized.

“The first wealth is health.” – Ralph Waldo Emerson

Health Benefits of Fish Oil

Cardiovascular Benefits

Fish oil is widely recognized for its heart-healthy benefits. Studies have found that the omega-3 fatty acids in fish oil can lower levels of triglycerides, a type of fat found in your blood and contribute to cardiovascular disease risk.

The American Heart Association recommends consuming fatty fish like salmon or taking fish oil supplements as a way to improve overall heart health. Research shows that omega-3s may also help reduce inflammation throughout the body which can lead to heart-damaging conditions such as atherosclerosis and high blood pressure.

“Several studies have shown that omega-3 fatty acids are important for heart health,” says Dr. JoAnn Manson, Chief of Preventive Medicine at Brigham and Women’s Hospital and Professor of Medicine at Harvard Medical School. “They may even decrease total mortality.”

While these benefits make fish oil a popular supplement for anyone looking to improve their cardiovascular system, many who practice intermittent fasting wonder if it breaks their fast.

Cognitive Benefits

Beyond heart health, fish oil has been linked with improved cognitive function in both children and adults. The omega-3s DHA and EPA found in fish oil play an essential role in brain development and function and have been found to potentially enhance memory, mood, and concentration.

A 2018 review by researchers from the University of Oxford found evidence suggesting that omega-3 supplements could boost reading skills and working memory in children with developmental coordination disorder (DCD). In older adults, research conducted at Rush University Medical Center suggested that individuals with higher levels of omega-3s had better cognitive performance than those with lower levels of omega-3s.

“This suggests that simple dietary changes may have a large impact on cognitive abilities in older age,” says Dr. Martha Clare Morris, ScD, Director of the Nutrition and Nutritional Epidemiology Program at Rush University Medical Center.

Given these benefits, some who practice intermittent fasting may wonder if consuming fish oil supplements during their fast will still allow them to receive its cognitive-boosting effects.

The simple answer is that it depends on your fasting goals. If you are engaging in a water-only fast for therapeutic purposes, then taking any type of supplement, including fish oil, would technically break your fast. However, if you’re practicing intermittent fasting for weight loss or general health improvements, there’s evidence to suggest that consuming fish oil may not significantly disrupt your fasting state.

• A 2019 study published in The Journal of Nutrition found that taking a high dose (4 g) of omega-3 fatty acids during periods of calorie restriction did not alter fat oxidation rates or blood glucose levels in overweight women.
• Another small study from 2016 suggested that taking a daily fish oil supplement during an intermittent fasting protocol could help reduce inflammation in obese individuals.

These studies suggest that incorporating fish oil into one’s diet during a fast can potentially provide cognitive benefits without hindering weight loss efforts. However, it’s important to consult with a healthcare professional before adding any new supplements to your regimen, especially if you have underlying health conditions.

“Fish oils alone won’t keep you healthy, but this is another example of how getting enough of certain nutrients contributes to overall health,” says Alice H. Lichtenstein, DSc, Gershoff Professor at Tufts University and Senior Scientist and Director of the Cardiovascular Nutrition Laboratory at the Jean Mayer USDA Human Research Center on Aging.

While there is no clear-cut answer as to whether fish oil breaks a fast, research suggests that incorporating it into your diet during an intermittent fasting protocol may provide cognitive and cardiovascular benefits without hindering weight loss efforts. Nevertheless, more studies are needed to make definitive conclusions about the effects of fish oil supplements on nutrient intake and physiological outcomes during periods of fasting.

Fasting and Fish Oil Consumption

Fasting is a common practice among people following various diets for weight loss, health improvement, or religious reasons. However, when it comes to taking supplements during fasting, many questions arise about their impact on the fasted state.

Effects of Fasting on Fish Oil Absorption

Fish oil is known for its numerous benefits, including reducing inflammation, enhancing brain function, improving heart health, and more. But does fish oil break a fast?

The answer depends on what you mean by “breaking” a fast. If your primary goal is maintaining the fasted state for autophagy, insulin sensitivity, and fat burning, consuming fish oil might not affect those processes significantly, as studies show. For example, one study published in the Journal of Nutrition found that taking 4g of fish oil daily while fasting did not alter blood glucose levels, oxidative stress markers, or muscle protein synthesis compared to placebo in healthy young adults.

If you are doing an absolute water fast, any caloric intake, no matter how small, can technically interfere with the fast, breaking it metabolically speaking. Since fish oil has calories (about 9 kcal per gram), it may reduce the degree of fasting strictly speaking, although the effects may be minor and tolerable for some people.

Combining Fasting and Fish Oil for Maximum Benefits

If you want to take advantage of both fasting and fish oil benefits, here are some tips to consider:

• Try time-restricted feeding: Instead of doing long-term fasts, such as multi-day or extended water fasts, opt for intermittent fasting approaches like 16/8 protocol (eating within an 8-hour window). This way, you can still get the benefits of fasting while taking fish oil at a reasonable time.
• Take fish oil with your meals: While fasting, you may consider having one or two small meals consisting of high-quality protein and healthy fats to provide nutrients without interfering with the fast too much. Taking fish oil with such meals can help improve absorption and utilization of omega-3 fatty acids, as they need dietary fat to be absorbed properly in the gut.
• Choose high-quality fish oil supplements: Not all fish oil supplements are created equal, so choose reputable brands that use third-party testing for purity and potency. Look for supplements that contain at least 1000 mg of EPA/DHA per serving, which is the optimal dose for most health benefits.

Risks of Taking Fish Oil Supplements During Fasting

While fish oil supplementation during fasting seems generally safe for most people, there are some concerns to keep in mind:

• Gastric distress: Some people may experience digestive issues like bloating, gas, or diarrhea when taking fish oil on an empty stomach, especially in high doses. To avoid this, take fish oil with food or split the dosage throughout the day.
• Blood thinning: Fish oil has anticoagulant properties, which means it can reduce blood clotting and increase bleeding risk in certain situations. If you are taking prescription medications that also thin your blood (such as warfarin), consult with your healthcare provider before taking fish oil supplements.
• Oxidation: Fish oil is prone to oxidation, which can decrease its efficacy and cause harmful byproducts to form. To minimize oxidation, store fish oil supplements in a cool, dry place, away from light and air. Check the expiration date before buying or using supplements.

“While fish oil can offer numerous potential health benefits, fasting can help your body repair damaged cells, reduce inflammation, and improve insulin sensitivity. Combining both approaches might be beneficial for some people, but it’s important to consider the risks and caveats.” -Cassie Bjork, Registered Dietitian Nutritionist

Taking fish oil supplements may not necessarily break a fast metabolically unless you are doing an absolute water fast without any caloric intake. However, it’s important to follow best practices as outlined above regarding dosing, timing, and quality control to optimize the benefits of both fasting and fish oil consumption.

Types of Fish Oil Supplements

Capsules

Capsules are a popular form of fish oil supplements and are commonly used to provide omega-3 fatty acids as part of the daily diet. They are easy to swallow and help people get more Omega-3s in their diets without having to eat fish every day.

A common question that comes up is whether taking fish oil capsules breaks a fast. The answer is not straightforward, but generally speaking, if you are fasting for weight loss or metabolic health, consuming fish oil capsules does not break your fast. However, if you are doing an intermittent fast for religious or spiritual purposes, consult with your doctor or priest before deciding to take any supplements while fasting.

“Unless you’re fasting strictly for religious reasons, taking a fish-oil supplement results in minimal interference to the fasting process.” – Dr. Jason Fung

Liquid

Liquid fish oils have become increasingly popular in recent years due to their high concentration of EPA and DHA (the two main types of omega-3 fatty acids found in fish oil). Liquid fish oil can be taken directly by mouth or added to food and drinks.

If you’re wondering whether liquid fish oil also breaks a fast, it’s important to understand that there isn’t much scientific evidence on the topic. However, some experts suggest that drinking small amounts of liquids like fish oil while fasting may not necessarily cancel out all the benefits of fasting, particularly when focusing on caloric intake. But again, always talk to your doctor or trusted healthcare provider if you’re unsure on what’s right for you.

“In normal fed state conditions, our body digests food and absorbs useful nutrients including omega-3 fatty acids from foods such as flaxseed, chia seed, fish/krill oil, and cod liver oil. For a short fast of less than 24 hours, these supplements might not affect the insulin levels and can be used.” – Dr. Aastha Kalra

Softgels

Softgel capsules are another popular product that typically contains purified oil from fatty fish like sardines, anchovies, or mackerel. These capsules come in various sizes and dosages depending on the brand you choose.

You may also be wondering whether taking softgels while fasting will negate the effects of your fast. Like with the other types of fish oil supplements mentioned above, there isn’t a definitive answer for this question. However, most experts agree that consuming small amounts of softgels is unlikely to break your fast if you’re doing it for health reasons. But again, drinking large portions of liquids, including fish oil-filled softgels, during fasting periods could reverse some of its benefits so consume wisely.

“For someone who is fasting for metabolic health, adding a little bit of fat like MCT oil powder, avocado oil, or even omega-3s is fine because it will keep them satiated longer and provide many health benefits.” – Dr. Mindy Pelz

Alternatives to Fish Oil During Fasting

Fasting is a common practice in many cultures and religions. It involves abstaining from food, drink, or both for a certain period of time. People fast for different reasons such as detoxification, weight loss, religious purposes, etc. However, some people have concerns about what supplements they can take while fasting. One common question is: “Does fish oil break a fast?”.

Vegetable Oils

Vegetable oils are often used as a substitute for fish oil during fasting because they contain similar health benefits. Most vegetable oils are rich in omega-3 fatty acids, which help reduce inflammation, promote heart health, and support brain function. Some popular vegetable oils include:

• Olive Oil: This oil is rich in healthy monounsaturated fats that help reduce the risk of heart disease. It also contains antioxidants that protect against cell damage.
• Canola Oil: This oil is low in saturated fats, rich in omega-3s, and has a neutral taste that makes it easy to add to any dish.
• Soybean Oil: This oil is a good source of vitamin E and omega-3s. It’s commonly used in cooking but may not be suitable for those with soy allergies.
• Corn Oil: This oil is high in omega-6s but also contains small amounts of omega-3s. It’s best used for baking or frying due to its high smoke point.

When consuming vegetable oils during fasting, it’s important to choose high-quality oils that are minimally processed and free from additives. Always check the labels to ensure that the oils you’re using are suitable for fasting.

Flaxseed Oil

Flaxseed oil is another alternative to fish oil that’s commonly used during fasting. Flaxseeds contain alpha-linolenic acid (ALA), a type of omega-3 fatty acid that’s converted into EPA and DHA in the body. These two compounds have been shown to improve heart health, reduce inflammation, and support brain function.

A study published in the European Journal of Clinical Nutrition found that taking flaxseed oil supplements can increase ALA levels in the blood, which may provide similar benefits to fish oil without breaking a fast (1).

It’s important to note that flaxseed oil should not be heated, as it has a low smoke point and may produce harmful compounds when exposed to high temperatures. Instead, use it in salad dressings or add it to smoothies for an extra boost of omega-3s.

“Flaxseeds provide an alternative source of omega-3s for those who cannot consume fish or fish oils. The conversion of ALA to EPA and DHA is not very efficient, but regular consumption of flaxseeds or flaxseed oil may still provide health benefits.” -Dr. Sarah Brewer, Medical Director at Healthspan

There are several healthy alternatives to fish oil that can be consumed during fasting. Vegetable oils such as olive oil, canola oil, soybean oil, and corn oil are all good sources of omega-3s. Flaxseed oil is another viable option that provides similar health benefits without disrupting your fast. Be sure to choose high-quality oils that are minimally processed and free from additives, and always consult with a healthcare provider before making any significant changes to your diet.

(1) Burdge GC, Jones AE, Wootton SA. Eicosapentaenoic and docosapentaenoic acids are the principal products of alpha-linolenic acid metabolism in young men*. The European Journal of Clinical Nutrition. 2002 Jan;56(1):51-64. DOI: 10.1038/sj/ejcn/1601280.

Conclusion: To Fast or Not to Fast with Fish Oil?

Factors to Consider

Fasting has become quite popular in recent times, particularly for its weight loss and health benefits. However, there have been debates on whether taking fish oil supplements during a fast would break the fast, hence minimizing its potential benefits. Several factors need to be put into consideration to answer this question.

• The type of fasting: There are different types of fasting- water fast, intermittent fasting, and dry fast, among others. The implications of consuming fish oil may vary across these methods.
• The reason for the fast: People abstain from food for various reasons -for religious, spiritual purposes, detoxification, managing certain illnesses etc. This purpose of the fast can impact whether or not it is appropriate to consume fish oil supplements during the fast.
• The composition of the fish oil supplement: Fish oil supplements come in different forms, brands, and flavors. Understanding what ingredients they contain will give a better sense of their impact on the body during a fast.
• Your health status: Some individuals suffer underlying medical conditions that require treatment through regular medication. In such instances, consulting a healthcare provider becomes crucial before making any adjustments to your daily routine or dietary plans.

Consulting with a Healthcare Provider

It is advisable to speak to a qualified healthcare professional before embarking on any form of intermittent fasting, especially if you are new to the process. Your healthcare provider will examine your overall health condition, medications, diet, and lifestyle habits to determine whether or not intermittent fasting is safe and suitable for you.

“Always consult with a healthcare professional before starting any fasting regimen. They can help you determine if it is right for your body and lifestyle.” – Karla Contreras, RD

Addtionally, your healthcare provider may also recommend certain supplements that should be taken during the fast to supplement nutrients and reduce hunger pains. Fish oil supplements may be one of them, and they will advise accordingly.

Finally, whether or not fish oil breaks a fast remains debatable since its calories are low, yet taking supplements can stimulate gastric juices that signal food digestion to begin. However, speaking to a health expert can help to clarify this concern based on an individual’s unique circumstances.

“While some people seem to worry about losing lean muscle mass during fasting, research indicates that intermittent fasting actually helps preserve muscle mass better than continuous caloric restriction” – Rhonda Patrick, Ph.D.

The use of fish oil supplements has been associated with numerous benefits like promoting brain function, reducing inflammation, improving joint flexibility, among others. Therefore, it seems reasonable to assume that consuming fish oil while intermittent fasting might have little impact on autophagy, ketosis or fat burning goals, unless there is underlying medical supervision guiding abstinence from supplements intake during the fast.

Deciding whether to take fish oil supplements during intermittent fasting depends largely on an individual’s unique situation, such as their overall health status, type of fasting method used, and reason for undertaking the fast- consulting your healthcare provider becomes therefore crucial in making appropriate decisions on this matter.

Frequently Asked Questions