Taking a daily fish oil supplement is beneficial to treat a variety of health conditions, from high cholesterol to arthritis. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration does not regulate fish oil because it is a supplement and not a drug. However, supplements still affect the body similarly to taking medications. Taking the correct recommended dose is critical to avoid harmful side effects. Side effects include bruising, nose bleeds, decreased blood clotting and stroke, reports MedlinePlus.
Daily Dose
Taking a daily fish oil supplement is beneficial to treat a variety of health conditions, from high cholesterol to arthritis. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration does not regulate fish oil because it is a supplement and not a drug. However, supplements still affect the body similar to taking medications. Taking the correct recommended dose is critical to avoid harmful side effects. Side effects include bruising, nose bleeds, decreased blood clotting and stroke, reports MedlinePlus.
Children
There is no established dose for infants and children of fish oil supplements. Receive approval from a medical professional before giving fish oil, or any supplement, to children. Some infant formulas contain omega-3 fatty acids in the form of fish oil. The supplement is added to formulas because DHA increases development of the infant's brain, nerve and eye development.
Warnings
Fish oil supplements are considered most likely safe for most adults, pregnant and nursing women, reports MedlinePlus. Even when taking 3 mg, the most common side effect is fishy-odor burps and belches. Never take high doses of the supplement or you place yourself at risk of developing bleeding and possible stroke. High doses of fish oil may actually increase cholesterol levels. If you are suffering from bipolar disorder, seafood allergies, depression or liver disease, taking a fish oil supplement may cause your condition to worsen.
Additional Sources
Fish oil supplements are rather large capsules. If you have difficulty swallowing the large capsule, consider taking a liquid form of the supplement. Or, the American Heart Association recommends eating fish twice weekly. Fatty fish such as tuna, salmon and herring contain about 1 g of omega-3 fatty acids per 3.5 oz serving, reports MedlinePlus.
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