Fish oil supplements provide a valuable resource for omega-3 fatty acids. Fish oil is thought to "lower triglycerides, reduce the risk of death, heart attack, abnormal heart rhythms and strokes, slow the buildup of plaques and lower blood pressure", according to MayoClinic.com. Even though there are numerous benefits to having an adequate amount of fish oil in your diet, there are some serious implications to excessive fish oil. Triple strength fish oil makes the possibility of consuming too much fish oil more likely. You should talk to your doctor about the amount of fish oil you should consume daily in order to avoid some of the more serious complications.
Fish Smell
A strong fishy smell is typical with high dose fish oil supplements. Your breath and sweat may contribute to an overall fishy smell that can emanate from your body. Occasionally, those taking high dose fish oil report burping and heartburn with a fishy taste. You may be able to minimize these effects if you take your fish oil supplements at night.
Upset Stomach
Chronic diarrhea is a common side effect of high dose fish oil. Diarrhea may lead to several mineral deficiency and dehydration. Make sure that you consume enough liquids and mention this side effect to your doctor if you experience it. Abdominal pain and cramping may be a symptom of your chronic diarrhea. Your doctor should monitor you closely if you decide to take triple strength fish oil supplements. You may be able to minimize these effects if you take your fish oil supplements with food.
High Cholesterol
Fish oils ability to raise low-density lipoprotein or LDL cholesterol levels appears to be dose-dependent according to MayoClinic.com. If you have any history of cholesterol problems, you should talk to your doctor about the advantage of taking triple strength fish oil. You may want to minimize the amount of fish oil in your diet if you already have high cholesterol.
Uncontrolled Bleeding
Fish oil has the potential to lower platelet aggregation in high doses, which may lead to uncontrolled bleeding. MayoClinic.com indicates high fish oil doses may induce nosebleeds and bloody urine. If you notice either of these side effects, you should immediately see your doctor. High strength fish oil supplements have a greater risk of spontaneous hemorrhagic stroke that may cause death. Brain bleeds can cause permanent brain damage and should be treated immediately. You should only take the minimum amount of fish oil required for you to stay healthy.
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