Supplementation with omega-3 fatty acids from fish oil has been reported to have a number of beneficial effects on human health. MedlinePlus explains that omega-3 fish oil supplementation may increase cardiovascular health, improve symptoms of arthritis and reduce the risk of death in general. While there are potential benefits of fish oil use, a number of side effects are possible and should be considered before taking omega-3 fish oils.
Upset Stomach
Gastrointestinal complaints are a common side effect of omega-3 fish oil supplementation. Drugs.com explains that about 3 percent of people who use fish oil will develop general dyspepsia or upset stomach. Gaseousness and belching are experienced by about 5 percent of people who take fish oil supplementation. Often times, the belching associated with fish oil supplementation will take on a fishy flavor or odor. Nausea has also been reported as a potential side effect of fish oil use.
High Blood Sugar
According to MayoClinic.com, fish oil supplementation may increase blood sugar levels. While this side effect is extremely rare, it is recommended that diabetic individuals using high doses of fish oil exercise caution and monitor blood sugar levels while taking purified fish oil.
Bleeding
Fish oil supplementation can interfere with the blood clotting process. According to MayoClinic.com, high levels of dietary fish oil may increase risk for hemorrhagic stroke. Omega-3 fish oil supplementation can also cause blood to appear in the urine. While there is a potential risk for developing certain bleeding problems while taking fish oil, a 2005 article in "The Journal of the American Board of Family Medicine" explains that bleeding side effects are very rare and most likely to occur in people taking more than 3 g of fish oil per day.
Infection
Omega-3 fish oil supplementation may increase susceptibility to certain infections. According to Drugs.com, about 4 percent of people taking fish oil will develop infections. These infections often bring about flu-like symptoms which will impact about 3 percent of fish oil users.
References
- Drugs.com: Fish Oil Side Effects
- American Family Physician: Omega-3 Fatty Acids, 70(1):133-140 (July 2004)
- "Journal of the American Board of Family Practice": Practical Applications of Fish Oil ({Omega}-3 Fatty Acids) in Primary Care, 18:28-36 (2005)
- MedlinePlus: Omega-3 fatty acids, fish oil, alpha-linolenic acid
- MayoClinic.com: Omega-3 fatty acids, fish oil, alpha-linolenic acid
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