Fish oil and postprandial plasma triglycerides.

Previous studies have consistently demonstrated that incorporation of fish oil into the diet counteracts the postprandial accumulation of triglyceride-rich particles in plasma. This effect may contribute to the putative cardioprotective effect of fish consumption. The aim of the present study is, therefore, to extend our knowledge concerning the physiological/biochemical mechanisms behind the fish oil related modification of postprandial plasma triglyceride profiles, but also to elucidate the impact on postprandial plasma triglycerides more specifically.
The effects of fish oil on lipid absorption and chylomicron formation are studied and in animal models in vivo following long-term feeding on a fish oil rich diet. In a rat model, it is studied whether this effect originates in a decreased lipid absorption rate and/or increased accumulation of lipid within the enterocytes, while a pig model is used for elucidation of the clearance rate of chylomicrons administered intravenously.