Fatty Acid in Fish Oil

The American Heart Association encourages people to eat fish twice a week because fish oil contains healthy omega-3 fatty acids. Individuals who are unable to eat fish can benefit by taking fish oil supplements. According to MedlinePlus, fish oil and omega-3 supplements are sold as alpha-linolenic acid, docosahexaenoic acid (DHA), eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA), cod liver oil, halibut oil, mackerel oil, marine oil, salmon oil, shark liver oil, menhaden oil, n-3 fatty acids, n-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids, w-3 fatty acids and long chain polyunsaturated fatty acids.

Omega-3 Fatty Acids

The fatty acids in fish oil are omega-3 fatty acids in the form of docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) and eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA). Omega-3s are also in flaxseed, soybean and canola oil and walnuts in the form of alpha-linolenic acid (ALA); however, according to the Mayo Clinic, ALA is not as beneficial as DHA or EPA. Fish with the highest amounts of omega-3s include albacore tuna, mackerel, salmon, sardines, herring, swordfish and lake trout.

Benefits

According to Medline Plus, multiple studies have shown that omega-3s from fish oil lower triglycerides, reduce blood pressure and lower the risk of heart disease. Individuals with existing heart disease can decrease their risk of heart attack, stroke, abnormal heart rhythms and death by consuming omega-3 fatty acids. The University of Maryland Medical Center (UMMC) also notes that omega-3 fatty acids reduce inflammation, lower the risk of cancer and arthritis and benefit brain function and cognition.
Current research of omega-3 fatty acids suggests positive associations with diabetes, rheumatoid arthritis, lupus, osteoporosis, depression, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, ADHD, skin disorders, inflammatory bowel disorder, asthma, macular degeneration and certain cancers.

Deficiency

According to the UMMC, a deficiency in omega-3 fatty acids can cause fatigue, memory loss, dry skin, heart problems, mood disorders, depression and poor circulation. Infants who do not get enough omega-3 have an increased risk of vision and nerve problems.

Side Effects

The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) states that up to three grams of omega-3s a day are safe for consumption. The Mayo Clinic warns that omega-3s can increase the risk of bleeding and high doses may cause nosebleeds and bloody urine. Common side effects of fish oil supplements include fishy aftertaste, diarrhea, burping, indigestion, reflux, bloating, pain and rash. The Mayo Clinic recommends taking supplements with food and starting with a low dose that gradually increases to minimize adverse side effects. Individuals who are allergic or sensitive to fish should not take fish oil. Omega-3 supplements can interact with steroids and medications used to treat diabetes, high blood pressure, organ transplants, high cholesterol and inflammation.

Pregnancy and Warnings

According to Medline Plus, certain fish can be dangerous for pregnant and nursing women and children because they contain contaminants like dioxins, methylmercury and polychlorinated biphenyls. The FDA notes that pregnant women and children can still benefit from omega-3s by consuming fish low in mercury like canned light tuna, salmon, pollock and catfish. Fish with the highest amounts of methylmercury include shark, swordfish, king mackerel and tilefish. According to the Mayo Clinic, fish oil supplements do not contain mercury and are safe for pregnant women and children.