Do Fish Oil Supplements Have Side Effects?

With all the talk about the health benefits of omega-3 fatty acids, fish oil supplements are gaining popularity as excellent source of these healthy fats. But are these marine oils healthy for you and your children? What about side effects from fish oil supplements?

Although there have been hundreds of studies and research on the health benefits of fish oils and omega-3 fatty acids, there are few actual studies on the side effects from fish oil. Fortunately, one such study was performed by the Tufts-New England Medical Center Evidence-based Practise Center in Boston, Massachusetts.

Researchers gathered over 100 different fish oil studies to see if there were any side effects from using fish oil supplements. Fish oil dosages ranged from a few hundred milligrams a day to over eight grams a day. The duration of each research study varied from a few days to over seven years.

Researchers found more than half of these studies displayed no side effects from fish oil supplements. The most common side effect was gastrointestinal, such as diarrhea. This was reported in less than 7% of all fish oil studies.

There were no reports of sudden death, life-threatening illness, handicaps or disabilities from taking fish oil supplements.

Research shows omega-3 fatty acids reduce the risk for blood clots and make your blood thinner. Therefore, people with bleeding disorders or taking anti-coagulant medication should consult with their doctor before taking fish oil supplements.

The New England Medical Center Evidence-based Practise Center concluded that any side effects from fish oil supplements would be minor. People experiencing side effects can reduce their effects by simply reducing the dosage of fish oils or discontinue taking them.

Other side effects of fish oil may be fishy burps or a fishy aftertaste. These side effects can be avoided by using pharmaceutical-grade fish oil supplements. Pharmaceutical-grade fish oils do not contain mercury, PCB's or other contaminants. You can buy these high grade fish oils in lemon, orange, and peach flavors. These flavors help eliminate that fishy aftertaste and the potential for bad breath from fish oils.

Fish oils provide an excellent source of omega-3 fatty acids. These essential fats support healthy cellular growth and metabolism. Not only do omega-3's reduce your risk for high blood pressure, high cholesterol and lower your risk for allergies, they also have an anti-inflammatory effect in your body.

With all these benefits, it makes sense you get enough of these healthy fats in your diet. Fish oil supplements are a great way to provide your body with the nutrients it needs to function at its best.

Article by Kevin T. Lee
Kevin L. owns http://healthy-oil-planet.com, a website on the health benefits of fish oils, tea tree oil, flaxseed oils and more. Learn how to choose the right oil for your own health needs and read the latest medical studies on the benefits of these healthy oils.