Risks and side effects of over usage of omega-3 fish oil supplements.

Are you consuming omega-3 fish oil supplements but are yet facing side effects thus making you sick and lying in bed all day long?

Well, then that could be because of the over-consumption of fish oil supplements which could lead to adverse effects on one’s body. Not many realize the side effects as much as they are aware of its benefits.

Like every coin has two sides, so is the case with omega-3 fish oil supplements. Though there are many benefits to consuming omega-3 fish oil supplements, there can also be some side effects or risks if taken in more than the limit of moderation. However, it is not that life-threatening, but one must ensure that the amount consumed is correct and the way it is consumed.

Here is a detailed article reflecting on the side effects due to the over-consumption of Omega-3 fish oil supplements.

Some side-effects of over-consuming omega-3 fish oil supplements.

  • Bleeding gums– bleeding gums and nosebleeds are two of the principal side effects of fish oil utilization. Before surgery, one must not consider taking fish oil and must check with a doctor before taking any supplements.
  • Low blood pressure– a study done on 90 people with dialysis revealed that taking 3 grams of omega-3 fatty acids each day considerably reduced both systolic and diastolic blood pressure. Fish oil may also intermingle with medications to lower blood pressure, hence it becomes necessary to consult a doctor to seek advice on supplements if undergoing treatment for high blood pressure.
  • Acid reflux – though fish oil is recognized for its potent and influential effects on the heart, several people complain of heartburn after having consumed fish oil supplements. Other acid reflux symptoms include nausea, belching and stomach ache are the usual negative effects of fish oil because of the high-fat content. Fat has provoked to cause indigestion. Consuming a moderate amount of dose and taking supplements along with meals can efficiently decrease the issue of acid reflux and ease symptoms.
  • Diarrhea – diarrhoea is known to be a common adverse effect connected while taking fish oil and is often predominant while procuring high doses. Flatulence too is another side effect along with diarrhoea. One must try to decrease the quantity of the dosage to overcome this negative effect.
  • High blood sugar – according to research, adding increased omega-3 fatty acids could escalate blood sugar levels in people with diabetes. The reason is that large doses of omega-3s tend to accelerate the production of glucose, which can influence high levels of blood sugar levels in the future.
  • Toxicity of vitamin A – some types of omega-3 fatty acid supplements are high in vitamin A. For example, one tablespoon (14 grams) of cod liver oil can satisfy up to 270% of daily vitamin A required in one serving. Vitamin A toxicity can trigger adverse effects like joint pain, nausea, dizziness and skin itchiness.  In the long run, it can even cause damage to the liver and even liver failure in extreme cases. Thus one must check for the content of vitamin A present in omega-3 supplements and should keep the dosage reasonable.
  • Insomnia – certain studies have discovered that balanced measures of fish oil could bring about an effect on sleep habits and patterns leading to insomnia. Though this may not be the case with every individual.

Special precautions and warnings

  • Bipolar disorder: taking fish oil might elevate certain symptoms connected with this condition.
  • Liver disease: fish oil might augment the threat of bleeding in people with scarring of the liver due to liver disease.
  • Children: fish oil supplements are probably safe and reliable when taken with the mouth. Fish oil has been carefully used in doses of up to 2.2 grams daily for 12 weeks. But younger children should not consume more than two ounces of fish every week. It is dangerous to consume huge amounts of fish oil from dietary sources. Eating spoiled fish often can lead to severe adverse and poor effects on children.
  • Fish or seafood allergy- for those with whom fish or seafood doesn’t agree, it is advisable not to consume fish oil supplements as they may be allergic to that.

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