Fish oil contains docosahexaenoic acid -- DHA -- and eicosapentaenoic acid -- EPA, which are widely known for their health benefits. Several studies show DHA and EPA lower blood pressure and triglyceride levels, reduce the risk of heart attack and death, and slow the buildup of atherosclerotic plaque. Aside from its effects on heart health, fish oil may benefit people with depression, arthritis, menstrual pain, cancers and attention deficit hyperactivity disorder. When taken in correct doses, fish oil has minimal side effects. However, high doses may have negative health consequences. If you have a medical condition, consult your physician prior to taking a fish oil supplement.
Blood-thinning Medications
Omega-3 fatty acids may increase the risk of bleeding. If you are taking blood-thinning medications including Coumadin, Plavix and aspirin, use caution when taking a fish oil supplement. If you bruise easily or have a bleeding disorder, you are at risk for increased bleeding on fish oil supplements.
Diabetic Medications
Taking fish oil may increase fasting blood glucose levels, making controlling blood sugar levels difficult for diabetics. If you take medications to control blood sugar, including metformin, insulin, glypizide and glyburide, exercise caution with regard to taking a fish oil supplement.
Pregnancy and Nursing
Some fish contain mercury, dioxins and other chemical contaminants. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration recommends that women who are pregnant or nursing avoid shark, king mackerel, swordfish, tilefish and farm-raised salmon and consume 12 oz. of other types of fish per week. In addition, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency recommends pregnant and nursing women eat no more than 6 oz. per week of sport-caught fish.
Considerations
According to MayoClinic.com, the World Health Organization and other governmental health agencies recommend healthy adults consume 0.3 to 0.5 g of EPA and DHA daily and 0.8-1 to 1 g of alpha-linolenic acid. Consult your physician prior to starting any supplement.
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