Omega-3 fatty acids have been proven to effectively reduce complications associated with coronary heart disease and cardiac arrhythmia according to an article in a 2004 issue of "American Family Physician." These special fatty acids can be found in fish, such as salmon and halibut. Omega-3 fatty acids help prevent blood clots and can reduce inflammation. However, omega-3 fatty acids can have adverse, or bad, side effects that you should consider before taking them.
Increased Risk of Bleeding
If you have a history of bleeding disorders, then you may need to consult a physician before taking omega-3 fatty acids. This is because omega-3 fatty acids may increase the risk of bleeding. Though rare at lower doses, bleeding may occur if you take large quantities of fish oil containing omega-3 fatty acids. High doses have been associated with an increased incidence of nosebleeds and blood in the urine. Omega-3 fatty acids may decrease your ability to form clots by interfering with platelets and other clotting factors in your blood.
Cardiovascular Effects
Omega-3 fatty acids can negatively affect the heart. Your heart can slow down or you may experience chest pain while taking omega-3 fatty acids. Other cardiovascular side effects of omega-3 fatty acids include migraines, arrhythmia and fainting spells. The fatty acids may be able to directly affect the cells of the heart and the blood vessels.
Gastrointestinal Irritation
High doses of omega-3 fatty acids can cause gastrointestinal irritation and stomach upset, notes an article in "American Family Physician." The fatty acids can cause slight injury to the cells lining the stomach and intestines. You may experience stomach discomfort, bloating, nausea and diarrhea. The higher the dose of omega-3 fatty acids, the more intense the gastrointestinal irritation.
Reduction in Blood Pressure
A reduction in blood pressure is a potentially negative effect of omega-3 fatty acids. However, this can be a beneficial effect in patients who desire the decrease in blood pressure, but in other patients it can lead to hypotension, or excessively low blood pressure. Furthermore, if you are taking medications to reduce your blood pressure, fish oil supplements with omega-3 fatty acids can cause an additive effect. This can lead to a decrease in blood pressure that can cause ischemia in your tissues.
Member Comments