Omega-3 fatty acids have been found to lower triglycerides and lower the risk of heart attacks and death in people who have cardiovascular disease. These types of fatty acids are found in fatty fish like salmon, mackerel and halibut and in some types of nuts and oils, but can also be obtained in fish oil supplements. While fish oil supplements are generally well-tolerated, there may be side effects for some patients.
Gastrointestinal Problems
Fish oil supplements can cause a variety of gastrointestinal problems. One of the most common side effects of Omega-3 fish oil supplements is the fishy aftertaste, according to the MayoClinic.com. People who take fish oil supplements may also have diarrhea, abdominal pain and bloating which may be worse at higher doses. Using a time-release preparation may lessen some of these symptoms, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center website.
Increased Risk of Bleeding
High doses of Omega-3 fish oil supplements may cause an increased risk of bleeding; taking more than 3g of fish oil per day may prevent the blood from clotting, according to U.S. National Library of Medicine. People who are taking blood thinning medications like warfarin or clopidogrel may also experience increased bleeding while taking fish oil supplements, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center website. These patients should discuss the use of fish oil supplements with their physicians.
Increase in Blood Sugar levels
People with Type 2 diabetes may have elevations in fasting blood sugar levels while taking fish oil supplements, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center website. These patients should check in with a physician before taking these supplements.
Contaminants
Some types of fish contain potentially dangerous contaminants such as dioxins, heavy metals and polychlorinated biphenyls, according to MayoClinic.com. Although these contaminants are more common in fish meat, they do not seem to be as present in the fish oil. The Environmental Protection Agency has issued recommended levels of fatty fish that pregnant and nursing women and children should consume, according to University of Maryland Medical Center website. However, these concerns may not carry over to fish oil supplements.
Hypersensitivity
People who are allergic or sensitive to fish should not take Omega-3 fish oil products, according to the MayoClinic.com. Some patients may develop a rash while taking these supplements or some patients may develop a more serious allergic reaction.
Member Comments