Scientific research suggests that fish oil is an excellent source of omega-3 fatty acids. These omega-3 fatty acids help not only in muscle activity and cell proliferation but also in reducing the risk of heart disease and stroke. They are also useful in managing lupus, eczema, and rheumatoid arthritis.
Fish oil contains two important omega-3 fatty acids, DHA and EPA, that are crucial for the development and function of the body's organs, including the immune system, nerves, and retinas.
Fish oil dosage
Fish oil supplements are beneficial for both children and adults. Children's recommended dosage typically varies according to the brand. The dosage is displayed on the backside of the box.
Adults must consume a maximum of 6 grams of fish oil supplements daily. Consult a doctor to determine the appropriate dosage according to your health condition.
Read more: Know The Right Benefits And Doses Of Fish Oil For Children
What Are the Side Effects of Taking Fish Oil?
Fish oil, like other supplements, might induce negative effects. Side effects may vary and include:
Malodourous sweating and breath
Fish has a delightful flavour, but its odour is foul and fishy. Similarly, fish oil may give an unpleasant odour to perspiration and cause unpleasant breath.
It is not guaranteed that all individuals will experience these side effects. When you sense it, however, you may experience discomfort.
Unpleasant breath and excessive sweating result from oxidised omega-3 fatty acids in the dietary supplement, which generate compounds with an unpleasant odour.
The following strategies can help prevent these side effects:
- Consuming fish oil pills with a meal
- Choose a premium fish oil supplement without chemicals that exacerbate halitosis and body odour.
- Maintain oral hygiene by brushing your teeth regularly
- Practice good personal hygiene to minimize the chance of malodourous sweating.
- Take fish oil supplements as directed To decrease the risk of adverse effects.
Bleeding
Omega-3 fatty acids in fish oil can decrease thromboxane synthesis, aiding blood clotting. Omega-3 fatty acids can lower triglyceride levels in the bloodstream, thus improving blood flow and reducing the risk of blood clots.
Supplementing with omega-3 fatty acids may increase the risk of bleeding when used with anticoagulants or certain medications.
People who are taking blood-thinning medications like warfarin shouldn't take supplements containing omega-3 fatty acids or fish oil carelessly without first consulting their doctor.
Digestive problem
Digestive symptoms like nausea, diarrhea, constipation, and vomiting may occur following the consumption of fish oil supplements. If this occurs, you should decrease the supplement dosage or discontinue its consumption.
Read more: These Fruits Contain Good Natural Equipment For Implementation
Allergic reactions
Fish oil supplements may not be safe for some people. The following are examples of side effects that some people may have after consuming fish oil:
- Nodules or rashes on the body
- Dyspepsia, vomiting, and abdominal pain
- Headache
- Blocked or runny nose
- Asthma
- Anaphylaxis (life-threatening allergic reaction)
Consuming fish oil supplements as directed can help prevent or minimize the aforementioned negative effects. Before using fish oil supplements or if you have any health concerns, consult with a doctor through the AI Care app.
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- dr. Yuliana Inosensia
Zawn Villines (2019). What side effects can fish oil cause?. Available from: https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/326206
Mayo Clinic (2020). Fish oil. Available from: https://www.mayoclinic.org/drugs-supplements-fish-oil/art-20364810
Harvard TH Chan. Omega-3 Fatty Acids: An Essential Contribution. Available from: https://www.hsph.harvard.edu/nutritionsource/what-should-you-eat/fats-and-cholesterol/types-of-fat/omega-3-fats/
Marsha McCulloch, MS, RD (2018). 12 Health Benefits of DHA (Docosahexaenoic Acid). Available from: https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/dha-benefits
WebMD (2018). Fish Oil - Uses, Side Effects, And More. Available from: https://www.webmd.com/vitamins/ai/ingredientmono-993/fish-oil
Rachael Ajmera, MS, RD (2019). Should Kids Take Omega-3 Supplements?. Available from: https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/omega-3-for-kids
Information from the American College of Allergy, Asthma & Immunology (2019). Fish. Available from: https://acaai.org/allergies/allergic-conditions/food/fish/
