Fish oil, as you might guess, is oil from fatty fish. Because many people do not eat much fish (and because fish is recommended as part of a heart-healthy diet), these supplements have become very popular in recent years. Fish oil is high in
omega-3 fatty acids and may help to lower
triglycerides. It may have numerous other health benefits as well.
It is thought that
omega-3 fatty acids are the active compounds in fish oil. These fatty acids in fish oil include eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and
docosahexaenoic acid (
DHA). These omega-3 fatty acids have various effects on the body, such as:
- Decreasing inflammation -- Omega-3 fatty acids seem to decrease inflammation in the body by suppressing a specific enzyme (COX-2) and inflammatory chemicals, such as interleukin-1 (IL-1) and tumor necrosis factor (TNF).
- Lowering triglycerides -- Omega-3 fatty acids lower triglyceride levels.
- Lowering blood pressure and preventing blood clots -- Omega-3 fatty acids decrease the production of a chemical called thromboxane A2. This chemical causes blood platelets to stick together (which encourages blood clots) and increases blood pressure. Because omega-3 fatty acids decrease thromboxane A2, they can "thin" the blood (perhaps preventing blood clots) and lower blood pressure.
These are just a few of the benefits that researchers think fish oil may have on the body. As more studies are done, more information about how it works will become available.
Fish oil has been studied much more than most
dietary supplements and appears to be effective for several uses. Some uses have more scientific evidence than others
(see Does Fish Oil Work? for more information).
Because fish oil has been extensively studied, there is information available about its dosing. However, there has been less research done on fish oil uses, so the most effective (and safe) doses have not yet been established.
Fish oil can cause several side effects, such as:
(Click Fish Oil Side Effects to learn more, including potentially serious side effects that you should report immediately to your healthcare provider.)
Drug Interactions With Fish Oil
Normal doses of fish oil are probably safe for most people, although high doses can cause problems. Some people may be more likely to experience problems when taking it. Therefore, you should talk with your healthcare provider prior to taking this supplement if you have:
- Diabetes
- A bleeding disorder
- Bipolar disorder
- Familial adenomatous polyposis, a genetic condition involving colon polyps
- An implanted heart defibrillator
- A weakened immune system, often due to cancer, HIV, or AIDS
- Any allergies, including allergies to foods (especially fish), dyes, or preservatives.
Also, let your healthcare provider know if you are:
Make sure to tell your healthcare provider about any other medicines you are taking, including prescription and non-prescription medicines, vitamins, and herbal supplements.
(Click Is Fish Oil Harmful? for more information, including any available warnings and precautions.)
What If I Take an Overdose?
It is not known what exactly to expect from an overdose, but it is reasonable to assume that taking too much of it may cause the usual side effects of fish oil, but perhaps more severely. Theoretically, an overdose may cause severe problems, such as internal bleeding or poisoning from toxins in the oil.
Storage Methods for Fish Oil
Refer to the label of your individual fish oil product for information on how best to store fish oil. Keep it out of the reach of children. If you have a problem with a fishy aftertaste (or what is often called a "fish burp"), try keeping it in the freezer.
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