One of the main and most unpleasant side effects of taking fish oil supplements are the related fishy burps. Though not harmful to the body, belching and burping is socially embarrassing. Still, fish oil has a variety of health advantages from decreasing triglycerides to reducing the risk of heart disease, so dealing with belching may be necessary. A variety of tips and tricks may aid in reducing the disagreeable side effect. Remember to speak with a health care provider before taking fish oil or any supplement.
Cause
Belching is a normal body reaction. It is the body's method of reducing excess air in the stomach. Fish oil capsules may not cause excessive belching, but your belching may be more noticeable because of the fishy odor. Fish oil is made from a variety of coldwater fish including salmon, tuna and herring, according to MedlinePlus. Though encapsulated, the stomach begins to break down and release the fish oil in the stomach. If excess air is also in your stomach, you burps will have a slight fish odor.
Freezing and Food
MayoClinic.com suggests freezing the capsules to create a time-release effect when taking the fish oil capsules. The capsules slowly release the fish oil over a period of time, rather than all at once, and the amount of fish odor related to your burps is reduced. Always read the supplements bottle before freezing. Some types of fish oil may not be frozen. Food buffers the odor of fish in the supplements. Take your capsule before eating a meal or heavy snack.
Different Brands
The fish oil brand you are taking may cause your body excess belching or have a heavier fish odor than others. Switch brands suggests MayoClinic.com to find, to find the brand that works for your body the best. Some fish oil brands go through extra purification process, but they may cost more. Look for brands that are labeled "odorless." These fish oil supplements are digested in the intestines instead of the stomach.
Additional Side Effects
Besides belching, fish oil supplements have some more serious side effects. Fish oil acts as a natural blood thinner. You may suffer from nosebleeds, bleeding gums or blood in your urine when taking large doses. Fish oil naturally lowers blood pressure. When you're taking fish oil with prescription blood pressure medication, realize your blood pressure may drop to dangerously low levels. Always talk to your health care provider to see if fish oil is the right choice for your body's health.
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