Fish oil is currently one of the most commonly used supplements. According to a 2010 ConsumerLabs.com survey, adults consumed fish oil more than any other supplement. When taken at the recommended doses, it is considered safe for the general population. Taking large doses of the omega-3 rich supplement may cause a variety of complications, ranging from minor to severe. Always take caution when taking any supplement and talk to your medical doctor before taking any supplements, including fish oil capsules.
Average Dose
A variety of doses are recommended for fish oil by the American Heart Association, or AHA. You may not require a daily, oral supplement if you are not diagnosed with coronary heart disease and are in generally good health. The AHA suggests eating fatty fish twice a week. Each serving should be approximately 3.5 oz. and cooked by grilling or baking, instead of frying. Choose fatty fish such as Atlantic salmon, halibut, mackerel and tuna. When fighting coronary heart disease, 1 g of fish oil daily is recommended. Each serving of fatty fish contains about 1 g of fish oil. However, eating fish daily may be difficult. Opt for a supplement under your medical doctor's supervision, if necessary. When suffering from high triglycerides, higher amounts of fish oil may required under supervision from a healthcare provider. The AHA suggests between 2 and 4 g of fish oil daily under such conditions. Any time you consume more than 3 g of the supplement, it is imperative to receive regular medical checkups.
Large Doses
Most medical professionals agree that taking more than 3 g of fish oil may only be done under the direct care of a medical doctor. This includes supplements as well as eating fish more than three times a week. Taking large doses of fish oil may lead to excess bleeding complications. You may require regular blood testing of triglyceride levels as well as cholesterol levels. In some people, taking fish oil regularly can increase "bad" cholesterol levels, known as low-density lipoprotein.
Side Effects
Large doses of fish oil -- 3 g or more -- increase side effects. You may notice your skin bruises more easily, and you may suffer from nosebleeds frequently. Your gums may become sensitive and bleed, especially after brushing. Small amounts of blood may be found in your urine. Most side effects are not dangerous but need to be monitored. If bleeding doesn't stop or if areas are associated with pain, seek medical assistance.
Medication Interactions
Taking any form of fish oil is contraindicated with some health conditions and medications. People who have a heart defibrillator installed should avoid the supplement. Taking fish oil when you have the device installed may cause severe heart arrhythmias, leading to a potential heart attack. Taking fish oil in combination with additional blood thinning medications and supplements increases the risk of excessive bleeding. Fish oil also lowers your blood pressure. Taking the supplement with antihypertensive medications can lead to abnormal blood pressure drops. Low blood pressure can be dangerous. Signs and symptoms include confusion, weakness, heart palpitations and shortness of breath.
References
- MedlinePlus; Fish Oil; November 2010
- University of Maryland Medical Center; Omega-3 Fatty Acids; Steven D. Ehrlich; June 2009
- ScienceDaily; Fish Oil Supplements May Be Harmful To Patients With Abnormal Heart Rhythms; June 15, 2005
- American Heart Association; Fish 101; January 2010
- ConsumerLab.com: Fish Oil Becomes Most Popular Dietary Supplement In ConsumerLab.com Survey; February 1, 2010
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