Fish oil is a safe nutritional supplement that comes in the form of a capsule. A supernutrient rich in omega-3 fatty acids, fish oil has been effective in treating numerous health conditions, including heart disease and depression, according to eMedTV. As with any supplement, there are good quality and bad quality brands. With fish oil, the better the brand, the fewer the side effects.

Side Effects

Fish oil is safe to take, but some common side effects include nausea, a fishy aftertaste, temporary belching, indigestion/heartburn, bad breath and diarrhea. Some supplements have been known to contain mercury as well, but the vast majority of them filter it out, making these supplements the best to take.

Benefits

Known benefits of taking fish oil supplements include lowering one's risk of a stroke and heart attack, reducing blood pressure, and decreasing pain and inflammation in joints, as well as helping with weight control and treating cardiovascular disease, says eMedTV.

Considerations

Do not consider taking fish oil if your supplement label says only "fish oil" or "marine lipids" as its source, according to Salmon Oil Plus, because the manufacturer is likely hiding information about its product, such as how healthy and toxin-free its fish source is. Trusted supplement brands list specific fish, like tuna and salmon, as a source.

Warning

If you are on prescription blood thinners, such as warfarin, please be aware that fish oil can further thin your blood. Also, Drugs.com says not to take fish oil if you are allergic to fish or soybeans. Talk with your doctor before taking any supplements.

Tips

To reduce risk of fish oil side effects (such as fishy aftertaste), eMedTV recommends to keep your supplement in the freezer until ready to use.

Source:

eMedTV: Fish Oil Side Effects

Drugs.com: Fish Oil Information