by Danelle Karth

Created on: May 11, 2009

Fish oil supplements are recommended for most people by a variety of people including doctors, friends and family, and even many bloggers. There are a number of health benefits associated with taking them, but what few people talk about are the side effects. While side effects vary from person to person, it is something you should consider before taking a supplement. You should also consider if you are in a group of people who probably shouldn't take fish oil supplements.

Low Dose Side Effects.

Many people report a wide range of issues that is mostly discomfort of the digestive system. While none of these complaints are serious, they are uncomfortable and can be frustrating. These include diarrhea, stomach upset, burping, acid reflux, heartburn, indigestion, abdominal bloating, abdominal pain, and even a fishy after taste. These side effects don't effect everyone and many people take them without ever experiencing some of them. However, if you are one who has to deal with them they can be frustrating and even embarrassing. Some doctors recommend a few tips which can help you make sure that you aren't one who experiences such side effects. First you should always take your fish oil supplements with a meal. This helps with digestion. Next start at the lowest dose possible (usually a single capsule). Finally choose a capsule over a liquid form and buy a better quality fish oil for making it easier to digest. While these side effects aren't great, they can be avoided.

High Dose Side Effects.

The biggest issue that is known for consuming large amounts of fish oil is an increased risk of bleeding. This can include (but isn't limited to) nose bleeds, blood in the urine, bleeding strokes, and increased risk of bleeding from injury. This is because fish oil makes it harder for the blood to clot. Because there isn't a recommended daily dose for fish oil, it should be noted that it is recommended that the maximum amount of fish oil consumed should never exceed 1600 mg for men and 1100 mg for women. This can help keep you safe.

Vitamin E Issues.

Another thing that should be noted is that fish oil depletes supplies of vitamin E in the system (a fat soluble vitamin). This can be dangerous, so many fish oil supplements include vitamin E. The problem comes when people consume fish oil and other sources of vitamin E. You can overdose on vitamin E and actually cause a whole host of health problems including liver failure. It is important that you are aware of what supplements

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