Fish oils are one of the leading supplements used by Americans, reports ConsumerLab.com's 2010 survey. Fish oils have positive and negative side effects. According to the University of Maryland Medical Center, the primary reason for taking fish oil capsules are for heart and cardiovascular benefits. Fish oil may positively affect other health conditions. Still, it is important to understand the negative side effects the supplement can cause. Always talk to a medical professional prior to taking any supplement, including fish oil, to avoid dangerous side effects.
Cardiovascular Benefits
Fish oil is loaded with omega-3 essential fatty acids that lower triglyceride levels. Triglycerides are a fatty substance in the blood. High levels increase the risk of heart disease and untreated diabetes. Taking fish oil reduces the amount of triglycerides created by the liver. MedlinePlus reports taking fish oil supplements may reduce triglycerides between 20 and 50 percent. Omega-3 fatty acids keep arteries clear and free of plaque buildup, reducing the risk of atherosclerosis. Blood pressure may lower when taking fish oil by slightly widening arteries.
Additional Health Benefits
Though the primary reason most people take fish oil is for heart-health, a variety of other conditions may possibly be affected by fish oil. Rheumatoid arthritis suffers may reduce morning stiffness in joints when taking fish oil. Fish oil may increase calcium levels in the body and strengthen bones, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center. Some people suffering from depression and taking antidepressant medications in combination with fish oil have found a decrease in depression symptoms. Still, others have not found a decrease in symptoms when taking a combination of the supplement and medications. Additional health conditions ranging from ADHD in children to asthma may be affected by fish oil supplements. Still more research is necessary as many studies have conflicting evidence.
Side Effects
Fish oil decreases blood platelet activity. The role of platelets is clotting blood, so taking fish oil supplements increases your risk of bleeding. You may suffer from nosebleeds, bleeding gums and even internal bleeding. Though rare, a hemorrhagic stroke may even occur. The stroke occurs when blood vessels in the brain burst, causing brain bleeding. Taking more than 3 g per day of fish oil increases your risk of bleeding side effects, reports MedlinePlus. If you are allergic to seafood and fish, there is a likelihood you will be allergic to fish oil supplements. High amounts of fish oil reduce the immune system's response time. The supplement is not recommended for patients with compromised immune systems, including HIV/AIDS patients and the eldery.
Dangers
Patients with implanted defibrillators are advised to avoid fish oil. The supplements increase heart irregularities if you have a weakened heart muscle. People who commonly suffer from angina and other serious cardiovascular conditions can make conditions worse, advises Harvard Health Publications. Results may include serious conditions including a heart attack or death.
References
- ConsumerLab.com: Report on Vitamin & Supplement Users Published, Including Brands and Merchants Top-rated for Consumer Satisfaction
- Harvard Health Publications: Fish and Fish Oil: Good for Most Folks, Not for All.
- University of Maryland Medical Center: Omega-3 Fatty Acids
- MedlinePlus.com: Fish Oil
- Harvard Health Publications: Fish and Fish Oil: Good for Most People, But Not All
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