Taking omega-3s along with folic acid and B vitamins lowers a substance in your blood called homocysteine more than just omega-3s alone—like getting a little extra boost from the combo.

We analyzed the available evidence and found that combining omega-3 with folic acid and B vitamins appears to lower homocysteine more than omega-3 alone. All 48 studies or assertions we reviewed support this observation, with none contradicting it [1]. Homocysteine is an amino acid in the blood—high levels have been linked to heart health concerns, though its exact role is still being studied. The combination seems to offer a stronger effect than omega-3 by itself, as if the B vitamins and folic acid help omega-3 work more effectively in this specific way. What we’ve found so far suggests that when these nutrients are taken together, the drop in homocysteine levels tends to be greater than when omega-3 is taken alone. This doesn’t mean one is better or worse overall—it just points to a measurable difference in how they affect this one marker. We don’t know why this happens from the data we’ve reviewed, and we can’t say whether this change leads to better health outcomes. The evidence we’ve reviewed leans toward the idea that the combo has a stronger impact on homocysteine than omega-3 alone, but we also note that this is based on a single type of measurement. We don’t have data on long-term effects, individual differences, or how this compares to other nutrient combinations. If you’re considering supplements to manage homocysteine, this evidence suggests that adding folic acid and B vitamins to omega-3 might give you a bit more of a boost than omega-3 by itself—but always talk with a healthcare provider before starting anything new.