Though a doctor's prescription isn't necessary to purchase fish oil, it is important to understand the supplement you are taking, even when purchased over-the-counter. More adults take fish oil supplements than any other supplement, including vitamins, according to ConsumerLab.com's February 2010 report. Fish oil contains high amounts of omega-3 essential fatty acids, required by the body. The body does not produce omega-3 on its own. You must include specific foods in your diet or take a supplement. Omega-3 fatty acids are recognized as a heart-healthy supplement, and have a variety of other benefits. Do not add the supplement to your nutritional routine before receiving approval from your medical doctor.
Dose
According to MedlinePlus, taking 3 g or more of fish oil daily is not recommended, unless specifically approved by a medical professional. Large amounts of the supplement may cause side effects to occur or increase. The American Heart Association recommends adults with coronary heart disease to take 1 g of fish oil per day, and those with high triglycerides to take between 2 and 4 g of fish oil. You may receive plenty of fish oil through diet. Eating a 3.5 oz serving of fatty fish contains about 1 g of fish oil. However, supplements are encouraged if eating fish on a daily, consistent basis is difficult. Speak to your health care provider concerning the proper dosage for other health conditions and fish oil.
Ingredients
Always read the ingredients on your fish oil's label. Most fish oil comes in gel capsules containing additional vitamin E to prevent the fish oil from quickly growing rancid. Some fish oils also contain additional vitamins and minerals such as iron, vitamins D, C and more. It is important to know how much of each additional supplements and vitamins are added to the fish oil, especially if you are already taking a multivitamin. It is possible to take too much of iron and other components, which may lead to an overdose. The type of fish used to create the fish oil should be listed on the label. Fish oil should not be made from fish high in mercury such as shark, king mackerel or tilefish. The most common fish used are salmon, tuna, herring and sardines. Look for the "USP Verified" label to ensure the supplement has been certified by the U.S. Pharmacopia for its ingredients and being free of contaminants.
Side Effects
Understand that taking fish oil does come with side effects. MedlinePlus reports fish oil is generally considered safe, but it is important to be cautious when taking the supplement. Fish oil can cause excess bleeding. You may suffer from blood in your urine or stools, bruising of the skin or excess nosebleeds. Fish oil is a natural blood thinner and increases the time for blood platelets to stick together and form a blood clot. Fish oil may slightly decrease blood pressure. Be extremely cautious when taking fish oil and hypertensive medications because your blood pressure may drop to low levels. Fish oil decreases your immune system's response time. If you suffer from an autoimmune disorder or are elderly, fish oil may not be the right supplement for you.
Warnings
Fish oil should not be taken if you have a heart defibrillator installed, advises MedlinePlus. The fish oil may cause your heart to suffer from irregular heart rhythms. Always take the supplement before eating a meal or heavy snack. This decreases unpleasant side effects such as fishy burps and belches. Adding food into the mix also increases the absorption of the fish oil into the body.
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