Adverse Effects Of Omega-3

Alpha-linolenic acid or ALA is an omega-3 fatty acid. Both omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids cannot be made by the human body; therefore they are called essential fatty acids. According to Maggie B. Covington, M.D, clinical studies show that dietary omega-3 fatty acids are associated with decreased risk from sudden death due to arrhythmia and decreased risk of all death for causes in patients with known coronary heart disease. Omega-3 fatty acids are generally well tolerated. Always consult your doctor before taking this or any other dietary supplement.

Prostate Cancer

Some research has suggested that high dietary intake of alpha-linolenic acid might increase the risk of prostate cancer. The Natural Medicines Comprehensive Database recommends that men with advanced prostate cancer or a high risk for development of prostate cancer avoid the use of alpha-linolenic acid supplements. Consuming dietary sources such as canola oil is not believed to be a risk factor for prostate cancer.

Fish Contamination

Pollution has caused many fish sources of omega-3 fatty acids to be contaminated with ethylmercury, polychlorinated biphenyls and dioxins. Large fish such as shark, swordfish, king mackerel and tilefish are affected. In 2003, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration issued guidelines to protect pregnant women and children from the dangers of contaminated fish.

The Environmental Protection Agency and FDA Recommendations for Fish and Shellfish Consumption by Women and Young Children advises: "Do not eat shark, swordfish, king mackerel, or tilefish, because they contain high levels of mercury. Eat up to 12 oz. a week of a variety of fish and shellfish that are lower in mercury." The advice remains the same for children, but with smaller servings. High grade omega-3 capsules are free of contaminants.

Prolonged Bleeding Time

Omega-3 fatty acids can cause prolonged bleeding time in the laboratory. Although there are no documented cases of clinical episodes of abnormal bleeding in persons who take anticoagulants and omega-3 fatty acids, they should be used cautiously in persons who bruise easily.

Elevated LDL Cholesterol

Higher doses of omega-3 fatty acids such as 2 to 4 g per day, which are used to treat high triglycerides, can also cause elevation of LDL or low-density lipoprotein cholesterol. The clinical significance of this finding is unknown.