Omega 3 Fatty Acid Side Effects

Omega 3 fatty acids are an essential part of a healthy diet. Omega 3 is a powerful antioxidant that fights free radicals and other toxins in your body and, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center (UMMC), offers extensive health benefits from lowering cholesterol and blood pressure levels to reducing inflammation throughout the body (see Resources). Omega 3 can be taken in supplement form or through foods such as fish and nuts. Like other foods and nutritional supplements, there are some side effects and precautions to be aware of when ingesting large amounts of omega 3.

Gastrointestinal Complaints

• If you're getting your extra doses of omega 3 fatty acids through fish oil supplements, you may experience some minor stomach problems. Gas, diarrhea and bloating are common.

Bleeding

• You may bleed or develop bruises more easily if you use omega 3 and also take blood thinning medications or have a blood clotting disorder. Speak to your doctor about the safety of omega 3 supplements if you fall into this group.

Glucose Levels

• One of the side effects of supplementing your diet with omega 3 fatty acids is having a fasting blood glucose level that is higher than normal. This may be a problem to discuss with your doctor if you have diabetes.

Stroke

• Stroke is a very rare side effect that can occur if you consume extraordinarily large amounts of omega 3 daily. UMMC reports that this risk is heightened only if you take in more than 3 g--the equivalent of three fish dinners--each day.

Timing

• Some side effects from taking omega 3 supplements, including flaxseed oil, can be avoided through timing your supplements carefully. Take all other medications and wait at least an hour before supplementing with omega 3.