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Certain conditions may make fish oil harmful to you.
- People who are allergic to fish, shellfish, or soybeans should not consume fish oil.
- The safety of fish oil is not known in cases of pregnant women and breastfeeding mothers. Avoid fish oil consumption if you are pregnant, trying to get pregnant, or nursing a baby.
- Children and teens younger than 18 years must never be given fish oil supplements without consulting their doctor.
Fish oil supplements may interact with certain medications or supplements. Do not take them without your doctor’s approval if you are on any medications (especially blood thinning drugs) or have chronic health conditions such as diabetes, heart disease, kidney disease, liver disease, or any disorder of the pancreas. Fish oil supplements may interfere with the action of hormonal medications including birth control pills.
Some studies have reported that oxidation of fish oil in the body may worsen alcoholic liver disease. People who drink more than two alcoholic drinks a day must not take fish oil supplements unless advised by their doctor.
There have been concerns about fish oil supplements and the increased risk of prostate cancer. Although some studies reported an increased prostate cancer risk, many others showed no link or even a decreased risk with fish oil supplements.
What are the daily doses of fish oil?
Fish oil supplements need to be taken in doses according to your age and general health. You may take them as indicated on the package or as prescribed by your doctor.
Doses may also vary depending on the condition for which you have been prescribed the supplement. The dose for the treatment of hypertriglyceridemia is generally four grams orally daily. This may be given as a single dose or in two divided doses.
Fish oil supplements are generally available as:
- Liquid oil
- Softgels
- Capsules
Swallow the whole capsule and do not break or puncture it.
Taking fish oil supplements with food may lower the risk of side effects such as unpleasant breath or acidity.
What are the sides effects of fish oil?
Fish oil supplements are popular for their rich omega-3 fatty acid content, which has several health advantages including improved cardiovascular and brain health. They, however, may cause certain side effects especially when taken in excess or without proper medical supervision.
Side effects may differ in frequency and severity depending on any underlying health conditions the person may have or any medications or supplements they are taking.
Minor side effects of fish oil supplements
- Unpleasant breath or taste in the mouth
- Belching
- Bloating
- Gastritis
- Heartburn
- Upset stomach
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Minor skin rash
- Back pain
Serious side effects of fish oil supplements
Although rare, fish oil supplements may cause serious side effects such as severe allergic reactions in susceptible people. This may manifest as:
- Swollen lips, tongue, face, or throat
- Hives or severe skin rash
- Wheezing
- Difficulty breathing
- Chest tightness or pain
- Fever with chills
- Body ache
- Itching
- Abnormal heart rate
- Dizziness or even fainting
Consult your doctor right away if you notice any of these side effects while taking fish oil.
Fish oil supplements may increase the tendency to bleed. This may be even more pronounced if you are on blood thinners (such as warfarin) or have existing bleeding disorders. In such cases you may notice:
- Increased or prolonged blood loss through minor cuts and wounds
- Bruises
- Coughing up of blood
- Bleeding gums
- Nosebleeds
- Increased blood loss during menstrual periods
- Blood in urine or stools
- Dark brown urine
- Tarry stools
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