Fish Oil Side Effects
In general, normal omega 3 fish oil supplementation is relatively safe with no severe fish oil side effects. However, there still some things to consider when using a fish oil supplement. First, keep in mind that fish oil is simply derived fat or oil from fish. It is often times encapsulated in a gel cap form however, this shouldn’t be compared to dangerous drugs medications.
Fish Oil Side Effects/ Omega-3 Side Effects
With that said, fish oil taken in moderate doses (1-3 grams per day) has been deemed likely safe for most people however, side effects of fish oil may include:
- burping
- nausea
- loose stool
- halitosis
- nose bleeds
- heart burn
It has been noted that refrigerating or freezing fish oil capsules and taking them with food and plenty of water can greatly decrease these side effects of fish oil. Many fish oil capsules now come with an enteric coating, which helps to decrease many of these fish oil side effects as well.
Fish oil in high dosages (>3 grams per day) could be potentially unsafe. Possible side effects of fish oil taken in large doses may include the reducing blood from clotting and an increased chance of bleeding. Please use caution if you are currently taking a blood thinner and also in taking a high dosage of fish oil. In addition, high dosages of fish oil may reduce the immune systems capacity to fight infection. Again, the evidence for this is not 100% conclusive, however if you are currently taking medications to reduce immune system functioning (AIDS/HIV patients), please use caution.
Although there has been some evidence that moderate dosages of fish oil can increase HDL or “good” cholesterol, high dosages can possibly increase LDL or “bad” cholesterol. Make sure to ask your doctor about this and to schedule periodic blood work to check cholesterol levels.
If you suffer from a fish or shellfish allergy, it is advised to use extreme caution when taking fish oil. Fish oil has the potential to spark an allergic reaction in those with fish allergies.
Another possible negative implication of fish oil is heavy metal contamination. Remember that fish oil is derived from fatty fish. There is always a possibility that these fish can be contaminated with heavy metals such as mercury. Big game fish such as shark, big game tuna, farm- raised salmon and king mackerel have a higher chance of being contaminated with mercury or other heavy metals. Most fish oil capsules do not contain heavy metals, but it would be wise to stay away from cheaper brands that do not offer any protection seal of purity. I outline several brands that I recommend in my page Best Fish Oil.
Lastly, a side effect of fish oil may include the reduced ability to control blood sugar. Diabetics should use caution and consult with their medical professional before taking omega 3 fish oil.
Summary:
Fish oil benefits and side effects have been well studied over the course of the last 40 years. While the side effects of fish oil are less conclusive than the benefits of fish oil, one must use caution and consult with their doctor or medical professional before taking fish oil. Moderate dosages have been found to be relatively safe with no serious fish oil side effects.