Fish Oil Side Effects

Omega 3 - Omega 6 Balance

Another fact: Omega-6 fatty acids are another type of fatty acid. But the problem is, that most of us consume too many omega 6 fats and not enough omega 3. Most authorities agree, that the amount of Omega-3 and Omega-6 in our bodies should be on a ratio of 1:1.

If there's an imbalance, that's when health problems start. For the record, therefore, Omega-3 is the good fat (just as you have good and bad cholesterol) and the sooner we get it into our diet, the better our chances of avoiding cardiovascular disease, depression, painful joints, ADD and some cancers. Fatty acids are concentrated in the brain (60% of the brain's weight is fat) but when it runs low on Omega-3, that paves the way for Omega-6 to take over.

So, What are the Side Effects of Fish Oil?

Going back to the side effects of fish oil, we really should qualify that as possible side effects to avoid any misunderstanding. Not all humans have the same biological constitution; some are allergic to fish or have a difficult time digesting it. In other cases, people have health conditions that could be aggravated when they take fish oil supplements.

So yes, fish oil does have mild side effects, but that shouldn't preclude you from taking it because fish oil contains Omega-3 that has proven beneficial. Some research studies have confirmed these health benefits.

What Possible Side Effects from Fish Oil Can We Expect?

1. Unpleasant burp. When you take a fish oil supplement that is not enteric coated, you may find the taste a little disagreeable. People often talk about an after-taste that remains for a few days. This is however, temporary and the after taste should go away. Fundamental Omega 3 is enteric coated to assure a burp-free experience.
2. It is possible that you could have a bout or two with diarrhea. It simply means your digestive system is reacting to something that it doesn't recognize. This symptom should disappear in a few days.
3. A few people have reported nosebleeds. Again, this is temporary. If it persists, you should seek the advice of your doctor.
4. Fish oil naturally thins the blood. Acutally, if you think about it, we were designed genetically to eat omega 3 fatty acids from fish oi. It doesn't really thin the blood; a better way to say it, would be it normalizes blood viscocity. (If you are taking blood thinners speak to your doctor first about taking a fish oil supplement. He or she may not recommend it while you're on blood thinning medication. Or, as many doctors do, he or she may recommend getting off the blood thinner.)
5. Abdominal cramps - some people have reported indigestion or cramping. These symptoms usually disappear once your body gets accustomed to the fish oil.

Remember: We all need Omega-3 to avoid those diseases often associated with deficiencies in good fats. Taking fish oil supplements - even when you're healthy - is recommended by many doctors. You just have to remember that the fish oil supplement must be a high quality pharmaceutical grade product that has gone through strict laboratory standards. Since fish oil is made from fish, some of the contaminants found in the water where the fish was caught may still be present in the manufacturing and processing stage. Your doctor or nutritionist can recommend reputable brands.

Also, some people tend to take fish oil supplements too many times per day - which explains why these side effects occur. Start slowly. Take 1 softgel a day for the first five days and then slowly increase your dosage to 2 softgels a day or as directed on the label. Don't let the side effects worry you. The health benefits of Omega-3 has been proven and tested over time and they far outweigh potential side effects.

If you're on prescription medication, you should consult your doctor before taking a fish oil supplement to avoid any drug interactions.

Note: if you buy fish oil softgels that smell rancid, or smell like old fish, throw them away. Omega-3 fats fall under the category of polyunsaturated fats. These fats can degrade when exposed to heat, light and oxygen. Over-exposure can make them rancid (oxidation process). When they turn rancid, that means they've already lost a lot of their nutritional value, not to mention their diminished flavor and smell. When this happens, they could transform into harmful free radicals. Care must be taken not to expose them to heat. Store your fish oil supplements in a cool, dark place like your refrigerator. Make sure you buy high quality fish oil supplements such as Fundamental Omega 3 which is Made in the USA to assure quality and purity.