Fish oil is generally safe for most adults, including breastfeeding and pregnant women, according to MedlinePlus. Fish oil is the second most common supplement, falling slightly under multivitamins reports a 2000 survey by ConsumerLabs.com. Tuna, salmon, halibut and even seal blubber are commonly used to produce the supplement. Still, taking large amounts of fish oil may have negative effects to your health. Always discuss taking fish oil, or any supplement with a medical professional.
Bleeding
Taking 3 g or more of fish oil may decrease the time it takes your blood to clot and is generally considered unsafe, unless under the care of a physician. You may experience an increase in nosebleeds, bruising of the skin or internal bleeding. Avoid large amounts of fish oil if you suffer from bleeding disorders.
Stroke
Fish oil is often taken to decrease your risk of stroke. However, in rare cases, a blood vessel in the brain can burst leading to a hemorrhagic stroke. The condition is serious and can be fatal. Some people may experience these symptoms when taking fish oil in smaller amounts. Signs of a hemorrhagic stroke include severe sudden headache, confusion and difficulty speaking.
Medication Interactions
Fish oil may interact with certain medications. If you are already taking drugs to control blood pressure take extra cautions when consuming fish oil. The supplement may decrease your blood pressure to abnormally low levels. Hypotension may result in confusion, dizziness, sweating and due to your body not receiving enough blood. Anticoagulant drugs decrease the time it takes for your blood to clot. Because fish oil is a natural anticoagulant, the risk of bleeding increases. These drugs include warfarin, dalteparin , enoxaparin and ticlopidine. Diabetic patients may need to take extra medication because fish oil increases may cause more difficulty in controlling blood sugar, according to MedlinePlus.
Fish Odor
More socially embarrassing than serious, fish oil supplements commonly cause a fish-like odor to occur. The supplement increase belching and burping. Freezing the supplement creates a time-release form. Some fish oil formulas come in time-release capsules and are labeled as "odorless." Taking the supplement with food before meals is best, suggests MayoClinic.com. Try several brands of the supplement to find one that works best for your body.
References
- ConsumerLab.com: ConsumerLab.com Publishes 2009 Report on Vitamin & Supplement Users, Including Top-Rated Brands and Merchants
- MedlinePlus: Fish Oil
- University of Maryland Medical Center: Omega-3 Fatty Acids
- MayoClinic.com: Taking Fish Oil Supplements --- Without Fishy Burps
- Merck: Hemorrhagic Stroke
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