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Side Effects of Mega Doses of Fish Oil

Fish oil is known to be highly beneficial for many medical conditions and for overall health. Adverse side effects from taking too much fish oil are rare and largely unstudied. However, side effects can become more prevalent when combined with certain drugs, or when used by people with existing health conditions.

  1. Increased Risk of Bleeding

    • Fish oil contains Omega 3s, which act as blood thinners by breaking down and preventing future clots. Side effects, such as extreme blood thinning, are rare but too much fish oil sometimes puts users at an increased risk of hemorrhagic strokes, nosebleeds and blood in urine. The University of Maryland Medical Center recommends that anyone with a bleeding disorder, who bruises easily or who is taking blood thinning medications use caution when taking fish oil.

    Diabetics and Schizophrenics

    • Diabetics, as well as schizophrenics, may lack the ability to convert the alpha-linolenic acid (LNA) in fish oil to eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA), which are more easily used by the body. Individuals with these conditions should ensure that they are getting enough EPA and DHA in their diets. Quality fish oil supplements will have higher levels of DHA and EPA than inferior brands. Fish oil may also increase the fasting blood sugar levels in those with type 2 diabetes. For this reason, those with type 2 diabetes should consult a physician before taking fish oil supplements.

    Toxins

    • Many industrial contaminants end up in our water supply. Some fish absorb those toxins, such as heavy metals (mercury), dioxins and polychlorinated biphenyls. However, these toxins are generally found in the fish itself, whether sport-caught or farmed. In fish oil supplements, these toxins are usually filtered out by the manufacturers. Buying from a reputable company will ensure that you're getting quality fish oil without harmful contaminants.

    General Consensus

    • While there are potential risks involved in taking too much fish oil, side effects are extremely rare and mild. According to Dr. Dariush Mozaffarian, an instructor in the department of epidemiology at the Harvard School of Public Health, "When both risks and benefits are considered for the general population, the benefits of fish intake far outweigh the possible risks."

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