Fish Oil Side Effects

It has been reported that most of the Western population shows major deficiency in the amount of Omega 3. What is surprising is that the same population was known to intake rich amounts of Omega 6 fatty acids. In the early 90's, the fact stating the correct ratio of Omega 6 to Omega 3 came to light.

It quickly became known that this ratio should be around 1/1 for maintaining a healthy lifestyle. In short, this meant, that a decrease in the intake of Omega 6 acids was required. At the same time, an increase in Omega 3 acids was demanded. But how much is the recommended quantity of intake? What is the right amount and how much is unnecessary?

Keep in mind that along with advantages, there are also some fish oil side effects.

Omega 3 fats include polyunsaturated oils. These oils are extremely susceptible to damage. Damage can be caused due to light, heat and oxygen. The fatty acids present in the oil get oxidized on being exposed to all these elements for a long period of time. The oxidization results in making these acids rancid and sour.

The acids that have become rotten also undergo a major change in their nutritional value. It gets hampered on a major scale. Many may not know this, but, on getting oxidized, fatty acids produce free radicals. These radicals participate actively in the development of cancer cells. Moreover, these radicals also cause certain degenerative diseases. Therefore, to avoid the fish oil side effects, certain measures have to be taken.

Fish oils and Omega 3 acids are also rich in polyunsaturated oils. Thus, care should be taken to store in dark glass. You can even store them tightly closed containers and keep them in the freezer or refrigerator. Also remember to not heat these oils on the stove. So, the next time you use your fish oil or flaxseed oil to sauté veggies, change your mind and use it for salad dressing.

While purchasing these oils, you have to keep in mind that they are easily affected by heat, light and oxygen. Therefore, pick a product that is certified as organic. Also, they should be refrigerated and packed in a dark colored bottle. Again, take care of the storage. A cool and dry place should be chosen for storing them.

Usually, fish oils are consumed for increasing the level of Omega 3 in the body. You can also do this by eating fish or some supplement for fish oils. However to avoid the fish oil side effects, care should be taken with the dosage. Depending on the age, the dosage should be decided. The benefits and risks should also be known by consumers.

Usually, pregnant and nursing women are at a higher risk of being exposed to excessive mercury that is obtained from fish.

Likewise, it can also be harmful for children. Potentially contaminated fish should be completely avoided by this group of people. Here are certain side effects of Omega 3 that are noticed in the body. However, these effects are temporary and disappear after a few days of intake. If at all you do not see an improvement within the first few days, change the brand.

One of the most common fish oil side effects is the after taste. This is only temporary and within some time, your mouth gets used to it and you feel nothing. Another temporary effect is the occurrence of symptoms of diarrhea. Even this, goes away after some time. If you are taking other blood thinning agents, it might aggregate with the intake of these oils.

However, if you have a cardiovascular disorder, do not discontinue the intake of these oils. These supplements are completely heart healthy. If you get fishy burps, try taking these supplements at different times in the day.

One reason for this may be that the oil has gone rancid. Change it immediately in such a case. Also, if often happens that these burps go away after some days. If you have discomfort in your abdomen, do not worry. Even this will go.

As you can see that almost all the fish oil side effects are temporary. Therefore, we can safely conclude that fish oil is necessary for the body. Even if it has disadvantages, they can be correctly overcome. Omega 3 fatty acids are almost completely nonexistent from our diets in today's time. Therefore, we should make sure that we take supplements to compensate for the deficiency. These acids are absolutely essential for our hearts, minds and bodies to work efficiently and at their prime.

Extensive clinical study has proven time and again the benefits derived from Omega 3 fish oil. Even if there are certain risks involved, we have seen how to avoid them. But, however you put it; Omega 3 acids are extremely essential for the body. You have to consume them in some or the other manner. You can include fish like sardines and salmons. Or else, opt for the various supplements available in the market.

But, make sure you select the right brand. Though the fish oil side effects exist, they are easily outnumbered by the advantages they offer.