Many people take vitamins and supplements to improve their health but just as with prescribed medication, vitamins and supplements should be taken with caution. Omega-3 fatty acid supplements are typically used for anti-inflammatory properties and to help alleviate symptoms associated with arthritis, acne and psoriasis. These fatty acids are found in high fat fish, such as salmon, sardines and mackerel. They can also be found in plant sources, such as flax seeds. When you don't include these sources in your diet, you may want to consider using a supplement.
Blood Thinner
Omega-3 fatty acids may increase the risk of bleeding, according to MayoClinic. If you take aspirin to prevent heart attack or stroke, or other medications that may thin the blood, omega-3 supplements can increase the risk of bleeding. According to MayoClinic, high doses have also been associated with stroke from bleeding in the brain, nosebleeds and blood in the urine. Fish oils have been associated with prolonging bleeding time and will decrease the ability of the blood to form a clot.
Allergic Reactions
If you are allergic to seafood or fish then you can possibly be allergic to omega-3 supplements as they are primarily derived from fish. According to the University of Maryland Medical Center, allergic reactions will include hives, swelling, difficulty breathing, fast heart rate, fever and chills. Fish oil is also known to cause bloating, gas, diarrhea and belching an unusual taste, but taking time-release capsules, taking them with meals or freezing them can help to alleviate some of these effects, according to MedlinePlus.
Gastrointestinal Effects
Taking omega-3 fatty acid supplements will increase the potential that you will experience heart burn, decreased appetite, constipation, stomach upset or pain, increased appetite, pancreatitis and vomiting, according to Drugs.com. For most people these gastrointestinal effects will be minimal. However, it is important that you are aware and talk with your physician if you experience these effects.
Vitamin Deficiency and Toxicity
When you consistently take fish oil supplements, it can cause a deficiency of vitamin E in the body, according to MayoClinic. For this reason, many manufacturers will add vitamin E to their fish oil supplements. However, vitamin E is a fat soluble vitamin, meaning that it is stored in the fat cells of the body and excess amounts are not excreted. Manufacturers also may add vitamin A and D fat soluble vitamins to their products. This can increase your risk of experiencing vitamin A, D or E toxicity. Signs and symptoms of vitamin toxicity will be dependent upon the vitamin and can be severe. According to Merck Manuals Online Medical Library, vitamin A toxicity can cause nausea, vomiting, abnormal liver tests, headache and increased pressure inside the head.
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