Fish oil: uses, side effects, interactions

Benefits

What are the benefits of fish oil?

Fish oil is an extract of fish fat. Fish oil can be obtained from eating fish directly or through supplements.

Fish oil is rich in omega 3 fatty acids which are essential for your health. Fish that are known to be rich in omega-3 fatty acids are salmon, mackerel, tuna, sturgeon, mullet, bluefish, anchovies, sardines, herring, trout, and menhaden.

Fish oil supplements are usually low in vitamin E. It can also be combined with calcium, iron, or vitamins A, B1, B2, B3, C, or D.

Fish oil is used for many health conditions, but it is most commonly used for problems with the heart and blood system. Some people use this oil to lower blood pressure or triglycerides (fat related to cholesterol).

Scientific evidence proves that fish oil is a useful supplement for lowering triglycerides, to prevent heart disease and stroke when used according to recommended doses.

Fish oil is also commonly used as a "brain food" which can help treat depression, psychosis, attention deficit-hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), Alzheimer's disease, and other brain disorders.

Others use fish oil to treat dry eyes, glaucoma, and macular degeneration (AMD), which are common conditions in older people that can cause serious vision problems.

Women sometimes take this oil to prevent painful menstruation, breast tenderness and complications with pregnancy such as miscarriage, high blood pressure in pregnancy (preeclampsia), and early delivery.

Fish oil is also used for diabetes, asthma, developmental coordination disorders, movement disorders, dyslexia, obesity, kidney disease, weak bones (osteoporosis), certain diseases associated with pain and swelling such as psoriasis, and preventing weight loss due to cancer drugs.

How does it work?

The most abundant content found in fish oil is omega-3 fatty acids, including EPA and DHA.

Omega-3 fatty acids work to reduce inflammation, making them effective at relieving pain and swelling. This may explain why fish oil tends to be effective for psoriasis and dry eyes.

These saturated fats also prevent blood clots, so they are considered beneficial in several heart conditions.

Dose

The information provided below is not a substitute for medical recommendations. Always consult your herbalist or doctor before taking this medicine.

What is the usual dose for fish oil for adults?

The dosage of herbal supplements may vary from patient to patient. The dose you will need depends on your age, health, and several other conditions. Herbal supplements are not always safe for consumption. Discuss with your herbalist or doctor for a dosage that is suitable for you.

In what forms is fish oil available?

Fish oil dosage forms are:

• Capsule
• Fluid

Side effects

What side effects can fish oil have?

Some of the most common side effects of consuming fish oil are

• Reduces immune system activity
• Burping
• Bad breath
• Stomach ache
• Diarrhea
• Rash
• Nosebleed

Not everyone experiences this side effect. There may be other side effects not listed above. If you have concerns about certain side effects, please consult your herbalist or doctor.

Security

What should I know before taking fish oil?

Some things you should know before consuming fish oil are:

• Store fish oil in a dry area, away from direct sunlight.
• If you are taking an anticoagulant you should not use it at the same time as this product.
• Be careful measuring the dosage because consuming too much fish oil can increase the risk of stroke.

The distribution and use of fish oil is not as strictly regulated as medical drugs by the BPOM. Further research is needed to determine its safety.

So before using fish oil, make sure the benefits outweigh the risks. Consult an herbalist or doctor for more information.

How safe is fish oil?

Fish oil tends to be safe for most people, including pregnant and breastfeeding women, when taken at low doses (3 grams per day or less). Fish oil should not be used in children or in those who are hypersensitive, or have breast / prostate cancer or heart disease.

Always consult a doctor or herbal professional before you take this herbal supplement.

Interaction

What kinds of interactions might occur when I take fish oil?

This herbal supplement can interact with other medications or with any health conditions you have. Therefore, always consult an herbalist or doctor before use.

Hello Health Group does not provide medical advice, diagnosis or treatment.