Risks of Taking Omega 3

The human body does not produce essential fatty acids (EFAs), therefore they are called "essential." People instead obtain them from organisms that can produce them. The two classes of EFAs are omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids. Omega-3 fats come in three types, which the human liver can convert into each other: EPA, DHA and ALA. ALA does not easily convert into EPA and DHA. Fortunately, high-omega-3 fish are high in EPA and DHA. Omega-3 also comes in supplement form, which however is not without risks.

Heavy Metals

• Omega-3 supplements derived from saltwater fish at the top of the food chain, such as salmon, can have a high concentration of heavy metals. Toxins such as arsenic, lead and mercury can accumulate in your body and cause health problems, especially in your brain. You should purchase only omega-3 supplements that have had the heavy metal concentration reduced to an acceptable level or that use smaller omega-3-rich fish, like herring and mackerel.

Blood Thinning

• Omega-3 supplements can thin your blood, preventing clotting. Concurrently taking blood thinners should be done only with the full awareness of the doctor doing the prescribing. While taking blood thinners can help prevent a life-threatening clot and embolism, too much can cause leaking that leads to a hemorrhagic stroke.

ALA Build-up

• Omega-3 supplements derived from fish tend to be very low in ALA, which the human liver can't efficiently convert to the more useful EPA and DHA. The omega-3 in plant-derived supplements is predominantly ALA, which can accumulate in the body unconverted. This can speed macular degeneration and cause cancer, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center.