Omega-3 fatty acid is an essential fatty acid because the body is not capable of synthesizing its own supply of this fatty acid. Omega-3 fatty acid can be derived from fish, some plants, nut oils and food supplements like omega-3 fish oil tablets. According to the University of Maryland Medical Center, omega-3 fatty acid can reduce inflammation. Furthermore, it may also help in reducing the risk of heart disease, cancer and arthritis. Omega-3 can cause some side effects, adverse reactions and drug interactions.
Bleeding
According to the University of Maryland Medical Center, high doses of omega-3 can increase the risk of bleeding, particularly in patients with bleeding disorders. Furthermore, patients who are taking blood-thinning medications such as warfarin and clopidogrel must also be cautious in taking this food supplement. In a study published by "Circulation" in 2002, researchers emphasized that the general margin of safety of fish oil tablet is only up to 3 g per day to prevent the development of possible side effects.
Gastrointestinal Problems
One of the most common side effects of omega-3 fish oil tablet is the development of gastrointestinal symptoms, according to the UMMC. This may include abdominal bloating, excessive belching and diarrhea. According to the UMMC study, roughly 5 percent of patients taking fish oil supplements experience this kind of problem. Time-release preparations of fish oil tablets may reduce these side effects.
Elevation of Blood Sugar Levels
Patients with diabetes should also be cautious in taking this food supplement because high dosage of fish oil supplement can sometimes cause elevations in the blood sugar level, according to the UMMC. Thus, diabetic patients should only take this supplement under the supervision of a health care provider.
Elevation of LDL Cholesterol
High doses of fish oil is associated with the elevation of LDL, the bad cholesterol, according to an article published by the" American Family Physician" in 2004. Thus, according to Medline Plus, people who are taking fish oil supplement should periodically check their blood LDL levels. However, the article notes that the clinical relevance of this finding is still unclear.
Fishy Aftertaste
The most common side effect of fish oil supplementation is the fishy aftertaste. According to the 2002 study published in "Circulation," this is the reason why up 4 percent of patients discontinue their intake of this food supplement. However, this side effect appears to be dose-dependent.
Member Comments