In 2004, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approved fish oil as a GRAS (Generally Recognized as Safe) supplement, recognizing that it is associated with many important benefits and relatively few risks. Nevertheless, the U.S. National Institutes of Health warns that fish oil supplements are not safe for all people or situations. Fish oil is associated with several side effects and many potential drug interactions. Consult your health care provider before taking any nutritional supplement, especially if you are taking medication or have a medical condition.
Contamination
The flesh of carnivorous deep-sea fish sometimes contains unsafe contaminants like mercury, dioxin and polychlorinated biphenyl (PCB). The National Institutes of Health note that these contaminants are typically seen in fish meat, not oil; nevertheless, heavy metal contamination is a theoretical risk for people taking fish oil supplements.
Gastrointestinal Side Effects
Digestive distress is a common but mild side effect associated with fish oil supplements. Gastroinestinal problems associated with fish oil include reflux, belching, cramping and diarrhea. Take fish oil supplements with food to avoid these unpleasant side effects.
Hemorrhage
The National Institutes of Health note that fish oil is a mild anticoagulant. When taken in megadoses exceeding 15 g per day, fish oil may increase the risk of nosebleeds, heavy menstruation or hemorrhagic stroke. In theory, fish oil supplements may interact with blood thinners like warfarin.
Vitamin E Absorption
Fish oil slightly inhibits absorption of Vitamin E, an essential antioxidant. People taking fish oil for extended periods of time should choose supplements that are enhanced with Vitamin E.
Hypotension
Fish oil can help to reduce blood pressure in patients with hypertension. The National Institutes of Health note that blood pressure reductions may be excessive for people with pre-existing hypotension (low blood pressure). Talk to your doctor before taking fish oil if you have hypotension or take medications that affect your blood pressure.
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