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Negative Effects of Omega 3

Omega 3 fatty acids are essential fatty acids that cannot be made naturally by the body, but can be obtain by eating certain foods such as salmon, tuna and halibut. Omega 3 acids play a crucial role in brain function, cognitive memory and performance, and in the normal growth and development of the body. The American Heart Association recommends that everyone should eat fish at least twice a week.

  1. Benefits

    • Omega 3 acids are known to help prevent heart attacks, reduce cholesterol levels and lower blood pressure. It is thought that the fatty acids in fish oil prevents the thickening of the arteries and improve blood flow to the heart. Fish oil stops the development of atherosclerosis, which leads to heart attacks.

    Types

    • There are three types of omega 3 acids: alpha-linolenic acid (ALA), eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and docosaheaneoic acid (DHA). EPA and DHA are mainly used by our body and ALA is converted by our body into EPA or DHA. Omega 3 acids' main function is to help reduce inflammation in the body and prevent heart disease, cancer and arthritis.

    Deficiency

    • Individuals who have an omega 3 deficiency might experience the following symptoms: fatigue, poor memory, dry skin, heart problems, mood swings, depression and poor circulation. Before taking any kind of medication or supplement, you should consult a physician.

    Allergen

    • If you are allergic or have a hypersensitivity to fish, you should avoid omega 3 acids. You can get your recommended dose of omega 3 acids by eating walnuts, flaxseeds and flaxseed oil. An allergic reaction to omega 3 acids means your body's immune system reacts to a specific protein that causes symptoms that range from a rash to trouble breathing.

    Risk

    • Children and pregnant women should limit their fish intake because of the level of mercury that are present in some fish. Diabetics should watch their blood sugar levels. Omega 3 acids are known to increase the blood sugar levels in diabetics and they should not be taken in conjunction with drugs that boost the body's rate of bleeding medicines such as Coumadin, Plavix, and ibuprofen. Also, omega 3 acids when taken with medicines that regulate blood pressure increases the effects of the drug.

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