Heart disease is the No. 1 killer in America. Fish oil supplements have become popular due to their connection with reduced risk of heart disease. Omega-3 fatty acids may pose problems for some people due to their ability to increase your risk of bleeding.
Benefits of Fish Oil
Fish oil's beneficial effects are largely due to the association between omega-3 fatty acids and inflammation. Inflammation is a necessary part of your immune system's response to injury or infection. If inflammation is chronic, it can cause problems of its own. Omega-3 fatty acids found in fish oil have been shown to reduce inflammation and are desired for their ability to decrease your risk of heart disease, cancer and other inflammatory disorders. The American Heart Association states that omega-3s aid in heart health by decreasing triglyceride levels, lowering blood pressure and slowing arteriosclerosis.
Effect on Bleeding
The increased risk of bleeding associated with fish oil is due to its effect on the way platelets clump. These red blood cells normally gather to form a blood clot, but excessive levels of omega-3 fatty acids can inhibit platelet aggregation and inhibit clotting. This effect can be beneficial in preventing blood clots, leading to stroke. Because of this blood-thinning effect, fish oil in high dosages may increase your risk of bleeding and can be associated with increased bruising as well, according to MayoClinic.com.
Contraindications
Fish oil's effect on blood clotting can cause problems if you are taking blood-thinning medications. Drugs such as warfarin reduce your risk of stroke by decreasing the formation of blood clots, but fish oil may increase the blood-thinning effect to beyond desirable levels. Consult your doctor before taking fish oil if you are on blood-thinning medication. The University of Maryland Medical Center states that no studies have been performed to confirm a link between fish oil and hemophilia, but hemophiliacs should, nevertheless, avoid fish oil supplements due to their effects on bleeding.
Dosages
Consult your doctor before taking fish oil. The American Heart Association says dosages over 3 g per day should only be taken under a doctor's supervision due to the risk of increased bleeding. You can also receive adequate amounts of omega-3 fatty acids by eating a 3.5 oz. serving of fatty fish, such as salmon, herring, sardines or tuna, at least two times each week.
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