Fish oil supplement side effects

Information on Fish Oil Supplements

Fish oil supplements are actually the oil which is obtained from certain tissues of fatty acids. Fish oil supplements are an excellent source of omega-3 essential fatty acids which are known as the docohexaenoic acid and the eicosapenthaenoic acid. All the health benefits of fish oil are actually derived from those two types of essential acids. The fish oil is commonly derived from fish such as sardine, pilchards, herring and menhaden. Fish oil is also a common ingredient in numerous food items and products such as resins, margarine and different types of detergents.

Health Benefits of Fish Oil Supplements

Fish oil supplements are quite popular because they provide the human body with certain of health benefits. They are very efficient in improving the functioning of the eyes, brain, the endocrine system and the cardiovascular system. Fish oil supplements also come in very handy when it comes to enhancing the functioning of the hormones, improving the health of the skin and boosting the strength of the immune system. Fish oil supplements are available in the form of softgel filled capsules. One should always consult a doctor before consuming fish oil supplements because only a doctor may determine a proper dosage for the supplement. Overconsumption of the supplement may lead to an occurrence of some side effects.

Side Effects of Fish Oil Supplements

The medical professionals claim that the prescribed daily dosage of omega 3 fish oil should not be more than 3 grams per day. If a person takes higher doses of the supplement, it may lead to various medical conditions and problems. Side effects may also occur even if the patient sticks with the prescribed dosage. A person who takes fish oil supplements can develop a fishy body odor. Fish oil supplements may be derived from fish that might have been contaminated with mercury and polychlorinated biphenyl. Other side effects may include diarrhea, indigestion, burping, acid reflux, heartburn and other problems of the excretory and digestive system. Fish oil supplements may also be held responsible for abdominal bloating, hematuria, abdominal pain, nosebleeds, different types of upper respiratory tract infections, vitamin D toxicity, swollen nasal passages, vitamin A toxicity, lowered levels of sugar in the blood, increased levels of low density cholesterol in the blood and lowered levels of triglycerides, among other harmful conditions.