- Fish oil is known for its
health-promoting properties.
However, more fish oil is
not necessarily better.
And too much fish oil can
actually do more harm than good.
So in this video we're
looking at five possible
side effects of too much fish oil.
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Number one, low blood pressure.
Fish oil's capacity to
lower blood pressure
is well documented.
An analysis of 31 studies concluded
that taking fish oil can
effectively lower blood pressure,
especially for those
with high blood pressure
or high cholesterol levels.
So while these effects can be beneficial
for those with high blood pressure,
it can actually be a problem for those
who don't have high blood pressure
or already have low blood pressure.
Fish oil may also interact with
blood-pressure-lowering medications,
so it's important to speak to your doctor
if you do take any medications
for treating high blood pressure.
Number two, acid reflux.
Although fish oil is known for
its powerful effects on heart health,
it can cause heart burn, or acid reflux,
in some people.
Other acid reflux symptoms including
belching, nausea, and stomach discomfort
are common side effects of fish oil
due to largely its high fat content.
Now, fat has been shown
to trigger indigestion
in several studies.
So sticking to a moderate dose
and taking supplements
with meals can often
effectively reduce acid reflux
and relieve the symptoms.
Number three, bleeding such as nosebleeds.
One study showed that taking fish oil
may be linked to a higher
risk of nosebleeds,
reporting that 72% of adolescents
taking one to five grams of fish oil daily
experienced nosebleeds as a side effect.
For this reason, it's often advised
to talk to your doctor before you take
fish oil supplements if you're on warfarin
or something other
blood-thinning medication.
Number four, vitamin A toxicity.
Certain types of omega-3
fatty acid supplements
are really high in vitamin
A and they can lead
to toxicity if you consume
them in large quantities.
For example, just one
tablespoon, or 14 grams,
or cod liver oil can fulfill up to 270%
of your daily vitamin
A needs in one serving.
Vitamin A toxicity can cause side effects
such as dizziness, nausea,
joint pain, skin irritation.
Long term, it could also
lead to liver damage
and even liver failure
in the most severe cases.
For this reason, it's important
you pay close attention,
or at least are aware
of how much vitamin A
is in your fish oil supplement,
and follow the recommended dosage.
Number five, diarrhea.
So this is a side effect
that is associated
with taking taking fish oil,
particularly if you
take very large amounts.
In fact, one review reported that diarrhea
is one of the most common
adverse effects of fish oil,
alongside other digestive
symptoms, such as flatulence.
So if you experience diarrhea
after taking supplements,
make sure you're taking them with meals
and consider decreasing your
dosage if symptoms persist.
Look, ultimately, fish oil supplements
appear really safe, as
long as you're sensible
and you're following the directions
and the dosages on the label.
Of course, I have to
recommend that you get your
omega-3 fatty acids and your fish oil
from whole foods where possible
rather than supplements,
as this is just gonna
maximize the nutritional gain.
Thanks for watching.
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