Americans generally take fish oil supplements for omega-3 fatty acids benefits that often contribute to heart health. The supplement affects the heart as well as cardiovascular system in a positive way, though fish oil is not safe for everyone. Fish oil capsules are considered a dietary supplement and are available over-the-counter; no prescription is necessary. Always consult with a medical professional when taking fish oil supplements to avoid complications and negative side effects.
Heart Advantages
Fish oil supplements may stop irregular heartbeats in the body, however more evidence is required to commit to a firm conclusion, advises Medline Plus. In severe cases, an irregular heartbeat may lead to heart attack and even death. Still, other heart advantages include decreased triglycerides in the blood, decreased heart attack or stroke as well as lower amounts of plaque in the arteries.
Dose
Taking a high dose of fish oil supplement may exacerbate symptoms. According to the University of Maryland Medical Center, the most commonly recommended dose of fish oil supplement is 3 g or less per day. Taking more than the recommended dose puts your heart at risk for irregular function. No recommendations have been set for children under the age of 18. Take fish oil before meals and with plenty of water. If fishy tasting burps or belching become a problem, freeze the supplement and swallow the capsule frozen for a time-release effect.
Warning
Do not take fish oil if you have defibrillator surgically installed to control irregular heartbeat. Taking the supplement may actually cause an irregular heartbeat and severe complications may result because of the damage your heart has experienced. While people with a healthy heart will often benefit from fish oil supplements, a damaged heart with copious amounts of scar tissue is more likely to suffer from a heart attack or detrimental side effects, advises Harvard Health Publications.
Additional Risks
Taking high doses of fish oil, 3 g or more daily, not only affects patients with irregular heartbeat. If you have experienced extreme angina, or heart pain, on a regular basis the supplement may actually lead to a heart attack, advises Harvard Health Publications. If you are taking medications for high blood pressure, fish oil supplements may actually decrease blood pressure to abnormally low amounts. Medications for low blood pressure include furosemide, diltiazem and enalapril. The supplement also increases your risk of bleeding. If you are suffering from regular blood in the urine, nosebleeds or easy bruising of the skin, you may be taking too much fish oil. Speak with your doctor if you have any medical concerns about the product.
References
- Medline Plus: Fish Oil
- Langone Medical Center: Cardiac Arrhythmia
- Nutra Ingredients: Fish oil supplements help promote regular heartbeat
- Harvard Health Publications: Fish Oil and Fish Oil Supllements; Fish and fish oil: Good for most folks, but not all
- University of Maryland Medical Center: Omega-3 Fatty Acids
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