Do fish oil side effects outweigh the benefits of taking fish oil supplements? The good news is that you can refrain problems by taking the correct dose and choosing the right supplements.
Fish oil side effects are sometimes related to the great health benefits that fish oil brings. For example, the omega 3 fatty acids help to thin the blood, preventing thrombosis (blood clots) by stopping platelets in the blood sticking together.
But if you take omega 3 supplements in very high doses (well above the suggested dose of 1 to 2 grams), you might thin your blood so much that it causes bleeding and bruising. So always make sure you take only the suggested dose of any supplement.
You might also experience problems if you are already on any blood thinning medication so you should consult your physician before starting a course of omega 3 supplements.
Another great benefit of omega 3s is that they can lower blood pressure. Obviously, high blood pressure is a large problem in Western society so taking omega 3 supplements is going to benefit the majority of the population. But, once again, if you’re already on blood pressure lowering medication, you might reduce your levels to a harmful degree–so consult your physician before taking supplements.
One of the other main fish oil side effects is related to the purity and freshness of the product. This is a fishy ‘repeat’ aftertaste, or burping. Many manufacturers mass produce their oil, making it hard for them to control the freshness of the product. The result is rancid or oxidised oil and this is what causes that ‘repeating’ and the aftertaste.
The solution is to select only those supplements that have been tested for oxidation and that say this on the label. You’ll find this on the supplier’s COA (certificate of analysis). Just make sure the supplier lists two oxidation components: the anisidine value and the peroxide value. Don’t accept a product that either doesn’t list both of these or gives one a value of ‘N/A’ (not available)!
The bottom line? The vast majority of people will be healthy to take omega 3 supplements with no problems. But to refrain fish oil side effects, always take only the suggested dose. Remember that just because a teaspoon or so is good for you doesn’t mean a bucketful is better! And always check with your physician first if you are on any other medication.
You can find more information about fish oil side effects and benefits, and the calibre products I use myself, on my website.
My study is Therese Samson and I promote natural approaches to health and well-being for the whole family at http://www.my-omega-3.com, where you’ll find out about the many ways omega 3 fish oil can improve heart, brain and skin health.
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