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Fish oil is one of the most commonly used supplements.

It is a potent source of omega-3 fatty acids, nutrients associated with many anti-inflammatory, health-promoting benefits.

However, like all supplements and medications, fish oil supplements can produce side effects.

Older adult with omega 3 supplement capsules in her hand.

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This scent can vary in intensity depending on your metabolism, dosage, and overall hydration.

Side effects can include:

3.

Headaches

Possibly due to compounds in fish oil supplements and their effects on the vascular system.

Notably, studies show that omega-3 supplements may also prevent headaches.

Blood Sugar Changes

Studies yield mixed results on the influence of fish oil onblood sugar(blood glucose).

One analysis observed increases infasting blood sugarwith high-dose fish oil supplements.However, it may improveinsulin sensitivityin specific populations.

Increased Low-Density Lipoprotein (LDL) Cholesterol

Some studies suggest some fish oil supplements raise LDL cholesterol.

Although a modest increase, it may make the difference betweennormal and elevated cholesterolvalues.

Eating lots of fatty fish is not associated with this side effect.

High doses are greater than 900 mg of EPA and more than 600 mg of DHA.

How Much Fish Oil Should You Take?

Also, consuming over 3 g of fish oil a day may increase the risk of excessive bleeding.

Keep in mind that while higher doses may be harmful to some people, they may benefit others.

Who Should Avoid Taking Fish Oil?

Unlike fish oil supplements, there are minimal safety concerns when eating fish.

Regular fish oil supplements may lack these additional vital nutrients.

Avoid consuming mercury-heavy fish like king mackerel, shark, tilefish, and swordfish.

As a result, some supplement products may not contain the ingredients listed on the label.

Its side effects range from gastrointestinal issues to more severe effects like delayed blood clotting and reduced immune function.

However, for most individuals, the side effects of fish oil supplements are minimal.

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