Omega-3 supplements are generally regarded as a healthy addition to our diets that can decrease blood pressure, improve blood triglycerides, improve heart health and act as a natural anti-inflammatory in the body. Fish oil supplements are the most common source of omega-3, which contains the chemical constituents DHA and EPA. Flax seed oil contains alpa linolenic acid, which is used as a vegetarian source of omega-3. Despite their potential benefits, omega-3 supplements can cause side effects.
Fishy Aftertaste
A frequent side effect of omega-3 fish oil supplements is repeating, or a "fishy taste" from gastric release back into the esophagus. This may also occur with flax oil supplements, which give off a nutty flavor that can be unpleasant to some users. Enteric-coated softgels bypass the stomach, allowing the fish oil to be absorbed in the intestines,where they cannot repeat. Other products lightly flavor their oils with a lemon or fruit flavor to mask the repeating side effect.
Blood-thinning
An omega-3 supplement may have a blood-thinning effect due to its natural anticoagulant activity in the blood. Three grams of omega-3 a day is generally regarded as safe, according to the National Institutes of Health. There is little evidence of excessive bleeding at low dosages of omega-3. However, increased quantities can multiply the risk of hemorrhagic stroke, prolonged bleeding and decreased blood-clotting due to a decrease in platelet aggregation. More frequent and/or mild side effects include nose bleed or blood in the urine. Small, dose-dependent decreases in blood pressure ranging from 2 to 5 mmHg may also occur.
Stomach Upset
The NIH reports that stomach upset is the most common side effect of omega-3 supplementation. Other gastrointestinal side effects include increased gas or burping, acid reflux, heartburn, indigestion, abdominal bleeding and/or pain, and diarrhea. Gastrointestinal symptoms are usually decreased if the omega-3 supplement is taken along with a meal.
Toxicity
Fish oil may contain toxins such as dioxins, methylmercury and/or PCB's (polychlorinated biphenyls) as well as pesticides. Fish meat accumulates far more toxins than the oil. High-quality fish oils do not contain these toxins because most of them are removed during processing. However, lower-quality, unrefined oils may contain heavy metals and toxins. These are especially harmful to children and pregnant women.
Activation of Allergies
Allergic reaction to fish is a rare side effect that has been reported with omega-3 supplements. Skin rash is the most common physical manifestation of this side effect. Omega-3 products containing flax seed or its oil may trigger allergic reactions to nuts.
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