Written by Info Expert on August 28, 2011 | Posted in Diet and Nutrition

A lot of people have been using fish oil because of its underlying benefits. It came from fish tissues and contains eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA), the omega-3fatty acids which are the key components as well as in the supplements being made from it. Its benefits in individuals with diabetes, attention deficit hyperactive disorder, heart diseases, depression, lupus, psoriasis, and in several other disease conditions are widely known. But what is not generally known are the fish oil side effects which may be harmful to our body.

The fish oil side effects are divided into mild and severe. First, we will discuss the mild effects. The most common are the experienced gastrointestinal discomforts like diarrhea, abdominal pain, and fishy aftertaste. These mild side effects are the commonly reported by people who are frequently using the supplements. The most common remedy done when they occur is by taking the pill or capsule along with meals or lowering the dose of the supplement according to the advice of a doctor. Another commonly stated side effect is itchiness. This may result when a person is allergic to the fish used in the processing the product. Furthermore, these supplements are recognized as blood thinners. This means that they make a person at risk for bleeding especially if they are taken in large doses.

There are also reported severe side effects of the products. Majority of users reported poisoning which is caused by the environmental contaminants being harbored by the fish. Aside from that, the omega-3 fatty acids can also suppress the immune system of an individual as well as decrease the glucose control of some diabetic patients. The most serious side effects of these fatty acids are that they increase the risk of developing hemorrhagic stroke in individuals.

The mentioned side effects may be potentially dangerous and thus persons with underlying diseases must first consult a doctor before taking the supplements. Being a practical and wise consumer, you should be knowledgeable not only of the advantages but also of the disadvantages of certain products before buying and using them to minimize experiencing their side effects.

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