Fish oil is an important health supplement, as it contains Omega-3 fatty acids, which are prescribed to people with heart diseases and certain inflammatory diseases. However, it comes along with certain side effects ranging from mild to severe. Read on to know more.
Fish oil is said to be very healthy, as it consists of certain essential acids like Omega-3, eicosapentaenoic, and docosahexaenoic. These acids, especially Omega-3 fatty acids, are considered necessary for a healthy heart. Their supplements are recommended to people who have heart problems, rheumatoid arthritis, bipolar disorder, high blood pressure, cancer, and asthma.
Fish oil is usually made by extracting oil from the tissues of cold water fish, like mackerel, cod, lake trout, salmon, albacore tuna, and flounder. Omega-3 fatty acids are not produced in the body of the fish. They acquire these acids from the food they eat underwater. However, there are chances of the fish consuming toxic substances too. These toxins in the oil can give rise to certain side effects.
Due to the increase in demand, many companies have started manufacturing fish oil supplements. While choosing one, it is important to notice whether the product is of a good quality. Many times, people taking fish oil pills experience some problems. Let us look at some side effects of fish oil.
Disadvantages of Fish Oil
- One of the most common drawbacks is experiencing a fishy aftertaste. There is also a chance for the people to experience belching after the consumption of pills. These may seem to be minor side effects, but can create quite some discomfort.
- Another side effect is stomach pain, often leading to diarrhea. When people start taking fish oil, they are likely to observe oily stools, and sometimes even blood spots in their feces.
- They may also be at risk of experiencing heart burn or acid reflux. Many have also reported to experience nausea for the first few days.
- Fish oil can also lead to excessive bleeding. People may experience nosebleeds, strokes, and presence of blood in urine. This happens, because consumption of fish oil leads to a decrease in platelet aggregation.
- Diabetic people should consult the doctor before using such supplements, as the level of glucose rises in the body due to intake of fish oil. Using it also interferes with the functioning of diabetic medications.
- Excess use can higher the risk of hemorrhagic stroke and brain damage. Some of the common symptoms of brain hemorrhage due to the use of fish oil are headache, changes in speech or vision, and weakness in the legs or arms. This is very severe, and if any such symptoms arise, one should consult the physician immediately.
- Fish oil intake is said to decrease the body’s ability to absorb certain essential vitamins like Vitamin A, D, E, and K, giving rise to diseases that occur due to their deficiency.
- Consumption of fish oil is also said to lead to rise in the level of LDL cholesterol, also known as bad cholesterol.
How to Prevent the Side Effects
To avoid side effects, one should start taking the supplements in small doses. Initially, people may experience some of the aforementioned side effects. However, most of the time, they recede in a few days or weeks. If they do not, a medical professional should be consulted.
Certain brands of fish oil supplements produce pills with low quality products, hence a change in the brand may sometimes negate the problems. Fish oil supplements are good for one’s health, but before beginning their dosage, one should consult a doctor. In case side effects are experienced, the consumption should be stopped immediately, and the reasons for it should be found out to avoid further complications.
Disclaimer: This NutriNeat article is solely for informative purpose and not intended to replace the advice of medical experts.