What Are the Side Effects of Taking Fish Oil?

Fish oil is a nutrient generated from the tissues of oily, cold water fish such as mackerel, tuna, salmon and cod. Fish oil contains omega-3 fatty acids that are not produced by the human body. Two fatty acids contained in fish oil include eicosapentaenoic (EPA) and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA).

Benefits

• According to the Nutritional-Supplement-Educational-Centre, the DHA and EPA found in fish oil have many benefits. Fish oil averts the build-up on the walls of arteries that can block arteries, leading to heart attacks and strokes. Benefits also include decreasing blood pressure, improving blood flow and diminishing inflammation, all of which benefit the heart. The DHA found in fish oil is needed for brain development. The Nutritional-Supplement-Educational-Centre also states that fish oil can thwart certain types of cancer and kidney ailments.

Mild Side Effects

• The Love to Know website states that fish oil has minimal side effects. Many of the minor side effects center on the digestive system. The use of fish oil can literally leave a fishy taste in your mouth and cause belching. Fish oil can also cause diarrhea and nausea. An additional side effect is that fish oil causes bruising.

More Side Effects

• Fish oil supplements can, in rare cases, cause bleeding in the brain. Fish oil can also lower the body's assimilation of certain vitamins, such as vitamins A, D and E, which can cause vitamin deficiencies or lead to diseases connected with vitamin shortage. In addition, fish oil can raise the level of bad cholesterol in the body and hinder the immune system. Side effects can also occur if the fish oil contains mercury or other toxins.

Precautions

• To reduce the risk of any side effects, do not take fish oil on an empty stomach. Drugs.com states that you should consult your physician immediately if you have any side effects. Also, stop using fish oil if you experience fever, irregular heartbeat or chest pain. If you experience discomfort, try a different brand of fish oil or lower the amount ingested. The Love to Know website recommends keeping fish supplements in the freezer to reduce the risk of side effects.

Other Considerations

• Make sure to take the exact amount of fish oil indicated on the label, or as prescribed by your physician. Never take more fish oil than is suggested. Other medicines may react with fish oil. Check with your doctor or pharmacist to make sure there are no possible effects of medication interaction. If you forget to take a dose of fish oil, do not make up by taking a double dose.