Fish oils are obtained by either eating fish or taking a supplement. According to MedlinePlus, they are effective for treating high triglyceride levels, preventing heart disease and heart attacks and are possibly effective for a long list of medical problems that range from high blood pressure and rheumatoid arthritis to menstrual pain and endometrial cancer. Although fish oil is considered safe for most people, high doses are considered unsafe.
Vitamin Poisoning
When taken for several months, fish oil supplements can cause a deficiency in vitamin E. For this reason, many manufacturers of fish oil and omega-3 supplements will add vitamin E to their products, according to MayoClinic.com. Regular use of other products with vitamin E, multi-vitamins or vitamin E supplements can then lead to an increase in the levels of this fat-soluble vitamin in the body. Fat-soluble vitamins are not excreted when taken in large amounts, leading to the risk of vitamin E toxicity. The symptoms of vitamin E toxicity include bleeding, muscle weakness, fatigue, nausea and diarrhea, according to Merck Manuals Online Medical Library.
Depressed Immune System
High doses of fish oil can also reduce the activity of the immune system, which reduces the ability of the body to fight infection, according to MedlinePlus. This reduction in immune system response will be of special concern for people who are elderly, are taking medications that reduce the strength of the immune system or those who have a disease or illness that negatively affects the immune system.
Blood Pressure
Fish oil and omega-3 fatty acid supplements can reduce your blood pressure by up to 5 mmHg, according to MayoClinic.com. The response seen appears to be dose dependent, which means that the higher the dose of fish oil supplement, the greater the risk of a reduction in blood pressure. Fish oils contain two specific substances, DHA and EPA, that are omega-3 fatty acids. It is the DHA that appears to have the greatest affect on blood pressure. An individual who takes blood pressure lowering medication should tell his physician he is using fish oil so his blood pressure can be monitored frequently and his medication adjusted appropriately.
Indigestion
Fish oil supplements are made from the oils in fatty fish. Because they are concentrated they can cause indigestion, belching, bad breath, heartburn, nausea and stomach aches, according to MedlinePlus. This side effect may be reduced by taking the supplements with meals. The added food in the stomach will absorb the fish oil so it is not as concentrated in the gastrointestinal tract. Freezing the gel caps before taking them may also reduce the negative digestive effects.
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