Wild salmon oil is an excellent source of omega-3 fatty acids, which contain docosahexaenoic acid, known as DHA, and eicosapentaenoic acid, known as EPA. DHA and EPA reduce the risk of heart disease by lowering triglycerides. According to the National Institutes of Health, they may also be used after heart transplant surgery to prevent high blood pressure and kidney damage. Although there are benefits to using wild salmon oil, there are risks and side effects, as well.
Increased Risk of Bleeding
Wild salmon oil may break down blood clots and prolong bleeding time in amounts above 3 grams -- what the FDA generally regards as the maximum safe daily dose. Very large intakes of omega-3 fatty acids are linked to nosebleeds and blood in the urine, as well as bleeding or hemorrhagic stroke. People with liver disase should not take fish oil supplements because of the bleeding risk.
Digestion Issues
Wild salmon oil supplements may cause gastrointestinal distress, indigestion, heartburn, acid reflux and burping. Diarrhea and stomach bloating are also side effects. Taking the supplement with food and starting off with a very small amount and gradually increasing your dose of fish oil may help to alleviate some of these symptoms.
Contaminants
Toxins are stored in the fat of the salmon, which is used to make fish oil. Unfortunately, this could mean there may be dioxins, PCBs or methylmercury in the wild salmon oil. Buying a high quality pharmaceutical grade oil means that any impurities or toxins will have been filtered out. It's also important that the oil is kept cold, as it can turn slightly rancid with exposure to heat.
Depression
According to the National Institutes of Health and Mayo Clinic.com, wild salmon oil may worsen the symptoms of major depression and bi-polar disorder. Mania, restlessness and the sensation of ants crawling on the skin have all been reported with large doses of fish oil.
Vitamin E Deficiency or Toxicity
Taking fish oil for a long time may lead to a vitamin E deficiency, so many manufacturers add vitamin E to wild salmon oil. Unfortunately, this may lead to having too much vitamin E in your system. Because vitamin E is a fat-soluble vitamin, excess is stored in your liver, which may lead to health problems -- especially nausea and digestive issues.
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