Taking fish oil supplements allows you to incorporate inflammation-fighting omega-3 fatty acids in your daily diet. The supplements are used for everything from reducing high triglycerides to minimizing arthritis symptoms. While they can have many positive effects, fish oil supplements also are associated with some negative effects, such as an increased incidence of stomach-upset symptoms. However, there are steps you can take to reduce these symptoms. Consult your doctor before taking fish oil supplements.
Effects
While fish oil has anti-inflammatory effects, the supplement can be irritating to your stomach, particularly if you are unaccustomed to taking it. Stomach symptoms do not tend to be serious, but it is not uncommon to experience nausea, belching, heartburn or loose stools. If these do not subside over time, talk to your physician about alternate options for dosage or delivery method.
Recommended Dosage
Your likelihood of experiencing side effects increases when you take large amounts of fish oil. MedlinePlus defines a high dosage as more than 3 g of fish oil per day. Unless otherwise directed by a physician, keeping your dosage to this amount or less can help to reduce adverse effects.
Solutions
If you do experience nausea, there are some steps you can take to prevent it from occurring again. Try freezing the supplements before taking them. Taking the supplements with food also can help, because food increases the amount of gastric juices in the stomach, which can make digesting the fish oil supplements easier. If you are taking fish oil under the direction of your physician, ask him if you can temporarily reduce your dosage, then work your way back up to the recommended dosage. Gradually increasing the dosage may help your body become better acclimated to digesting the supplement.
Expiration Date
If you experience additional effects, like a fishy aftertaste after taking the supplement, then the fish oil may be rancid. Light exposure, air and time can cause fish oil supplements to go bad, which can cause stomach upset when you take them. While the supplements may not always look different, if they smell sour, this can be a sign they are contaminated. Discontinue use. Store supplements away from the light and in a cool, dry place to reduce the likelihood they will be rancid.
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