ROCHESTER, Minn., Feb. 11 (UPI) -- A U.S. newsletter advises how to take those very healthy fish oil supplements, but avoid that fishy aftertaste.
People who want the benefits of omega-3 fatty acids but don't want to eat a lot of fish often turn to supplements. The Mayo Clinic Health Letter advises putting capsules in the freezer before swallowing to avoid the fishy burp.
"Swallow the capsule frozen," the newsletter said. "This slows the breakdown of fish oil in the stomach, often reducing fishy burps. The fish oil is still digested effectively."
Other fish burp avoidance techniques include:
-- Trying an "odorless" supplement. This type of coated capsule passes through the stomach and dissolves in the intestines.
-- Switching brands. A different brand may taste less fishy.
-- Paying more. Some manufacturers make a pure omega-3 fatty acids product that doesn't taste fishy, although it is likely to cost more than standard products.
In the long run, the occasional fishy burp may be a small disadvantage compared to the mega health benefits of omega-3 fatty acids.
The Mayo newsletter said fish oil supplements often are prescribed for heart attack survivors. The supplements can help prevent future heart problems. They also are prescribed for people with high triglycerides, a type of fat in the blood.
