Fish Oil Information Pros & Cons

Fish oil supplements contain large amounts of omega-3 fatty acids. These fats are vital for humans but cannot be created naturally in the body. To make fish oil supplements, fatty tissue is extracted from fish such as salmon, herring, mackerel, and cod.

Blood Pressure

• Fish oil may be used to decrease high blood pressure levels, but consuming improper, high dosages of fish oil can cause additional health problems such as bleeding. Consult a physician for information on the proper dose for your body.

Toxicity

• Prolonged usage of fish oil supplements can build up toxic levels of vitamins A, E, and D in the body. Women who wish to have children should take lower dosages of fish oil to prevent pregnancy complications related to this risk.

Cholesterol

• Individuals with a history of high cholesterol levels may use fish oil to decrease low-density lipoprotein cholesterol, which is the kind of cholesterol that may cause health complications at high levels.

Stomach Problems

• Fish oil may cause intestinal problems such as diarrhea, heartburn, abdominal pain, acid reflux, and other related difficulties. If any of these symptoms exist when taking fish oil supplements, decrease the dosage or cease taking fish oil supplements.

Allergies

• Anyone with a seafood allergy is likely to experience the same allergic complications with fish oil. People with such allergies should use caution or avoid taking fish oil supplements.