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Fish oil supplements are often taken for their omega-3 fatty acids, which provide health benefits. However, taking too much fish oil can lead to adverse effects, including low blood pressure, acid reflux, diarrhoea, headaches, and an increased risk of atrial fibrillation (heart arrhythmia). While muscle aches are not commonly listed as a side effect of fish oil consumption, some studies have examined the effect of omega-3 ingestion on perceived pain and external symptoms of delayed onset muscle soreness after exercise. Additionally, fish oil supplements can cause a fishy body odour, stomach upset, and dry skin. It is important to consult with a healthcare professional before taking any supplements to ensure safe and appropriate use.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Fish oil cause muscle aches | No direct evidence found, but fish oil is purported to enhance recovery of muscular performance and reduce muscle soreness post-exercise |
| Fish oil side effects | Diarrhea, low blood pressure, acid reflux, headaches, a fishy smell, increased risk of atrial fibrillation (heart arrhythmia), rash, hives, itching, red, swollen, blistered, or peeling skin with or without fever, wheezing, tightness in the chest or throat, trouble breathing, swallowing, or talking, unusual hoarseness, swelling of the mouth, face, lips, tongue, or throat, fast or abnormal heartbeat, dizziness or passing out, shortness of breath, chest pain, unexplained bruising or bleeding, swelling in the arms or legs |
| Fish oil benefits | Fish oil is rich in omega-3 fatty acids, which can help control the immune system, fight joint inflammation, relieve inflammation, reduce the risk of diabetes, relieve symptoms of inflammatory conditions like rheumatoid arthritis, reduce severity of migraine episodes in people with migraines |
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What You'll Learn
Fish oil supplements can reduce muscle stiffness after exercise
Fish oil supplements are commonly taken to promote heart, brain, eye, and joint health. They are rich in omega-3 fatty acids, which are considered essential as the human body cannot produce them on its own. While several types of omega-3s exist, the two found in fish oil are eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA). The American Heart Association recommends two 3-ounce servings of cold-water fish per week, providing about 1.5 grams of omega-3 fatty acids per serving.
Fish oil supplements are also popular among bodybuilders and athletes due to their anti-inflammatory properties. Research suggests that fish oil may enhance muscle sensitivity to protein and resistance training, leading to greater gains in muscle size and strength. This is especially beneficial for older adults, as ageing is associated with a progressive loss of muscle mass and a decreased response to resistance training and protein intake.
Several studies have demonstrated the positive effects of fish oil supplements on muscle stiffness and soreness after exercise. In one study, participants who took fish oil supplements experienced reduced muscle stiffness and soreness, less swelling, and an improved range of motion compared to those who took placebo supplements. Another study found that women who supplemented with 6,000 mg of fish oil daily significantly reduced the severity of delayed onset muscle soreness (DOMS) following bicep curls and knee extensions.
It is important to note that the effects of fish oil supplements may vary depending on individual factors such as metabolism and health conditions. While fish oil supplements can provide benefits, obtaining omega-3s through a balanced diet that includes seafood is generally recommended. Additionally, it is always advisable to consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new supplement to ensure it is suitable for your personal circumstances.
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Fish oil can cause allergic reactions
Fish oil supplements are commonly used to increase omega-3 fatty acid levels. However, taking too much fish oil can lead to adverse effects. While allergic reactions to fish oil are extremely rare, they can be serious and even life-threatening.
If you have an allergy to fish or shellfish, you may also be allergic to fish oil. A small 2008 study tested six people with fish allergies and found that fish oil supplements did not cause a reaction. However, the study only included a small number of people and tested only two brands of fish oil supplements.
Up to 2.3% of people in the United States are allergic to fish. A protein in fish muscle called parvalbumin may trigger a reaction in some people, and this protein may be present in some fish oils. If you have a fish or shellfish allergy, the American College of Allergy, Asthma & Immunology (ACAAI) recommends that you visit a dermatologist and get tested to see if you will react to specific fish oil supplements.
Symptoms of an allergic reaction to fish oil may include a rash, hives, itching, red or swollen skin, blisters, peeling skin, fever, wheezing, tightness in the chest or throat, trouble breathing, swallowing or talking, unusual hoarseness, or swelling of the mouth, face, lips, tongue, or throat. If you experience any of these symptoms, stop taking fish oil supplements immediately and seek medical help.
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Fish oil may cause gastrointestinal issues
Fish oil supplements are known to provide several health benefits due to their omega-3 fatty acids content. However, consuming too much fish oil can lead to adverse effects, including gastrointestinal issues. While side effects from fish oil supplements are usually minor and uncommon, stomach upsets are the most commonly reported issue. In addition to stomach discomfort, some people may experience flatulence and diarrhoea after taking fish oil supplements.
Diarrhoea is a known side effect of omega-3 supplements in general, and it is recommended that those experiencing this symptom ensure they are taking their supplements with meals and consider decreasing their dosage to observe any improvements. Aside from gastrointestinal issues, fish oil supplements can also cause a fishy body odour, low blood pressure, acid reflux, headaches, and an increased risk of atrial fibrillation or heart arrhythmia in some individuals.
It is worth noting that the side effects of fish oil can vary depending on the individual, and it is always advisable to consult a healthcare provider to ensure the information is applicable to your personal circumstances. Additionally, it is generally recommended to obtain omega-3s through a balanced diet that includes seafood rather than relying solely on supplements. This way, you can also benefit from other nutrients present in seafood that are not found in fish oil supplements.
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Fish oil may increase the risk of atrial fibrillation
Fish oil supplements are often consumed for their omega-3 fatty acids, which provide numerous health benefits. However, taking too much fish oil can lead to adverse effects. One potential risk associated with excessive fish oil consumption is an increased likelihood of developing atrial fibrillation (AFib).
Atrial fibrillation is a type of irregular heart rhythm or arrhythmia that disrupts the normal flow of blood through the heart. AFib can increase the risk of blood clots and stroke, posing potentially serious health complications. Research has indicated a link between high doses of fish oil supplements and an elevated risk of atrial fibrillation.
The Smidt Heart Institute conducted a study that found a correlation between fish oil intake and atrial fibrillation. The results suggested that consuming more than 1 gram of fish oil per day may increase the risk of developing AFib. This finding highlights the importance of monitoring fish oil intake to prevent potential negative consequences.
While the exact mechanism behind the association between fish oil and atrial fibrillation is not fully understood, it is believed that the dose of omega-3 fatty acids plays a crucial role. Some studies have indicated that omega-3 fatty acids can significantly reduce blood triglyceride levels and arthritis pain. However, the impact on atrial fibrillation may be dependent on the specific dosage and individual factors.
It is worth noting that the risk of developing atrial fibrillation increases with age and is more prevalent in men compared to women. Additionally, other risk factors include high blood pressure, coronary artery disease, heart failure, heart valve defects, obesity, and diabetes. Therefore, individuals with these risk factors should be particularly cautious when considering fish oil supplementation and consult with their healthcare providers to weigh the benefits against the potential risks.
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Fish oil may cause low blood pressure
Fish oil is well known for its health-promoting properties, such as reducing inflammation and the risk of diabetes. However, taking too much fish oil can lead to adverse effects. One of the potential side effects of consuming too much fish oil is low blood pressure.
A 2022 meta-analysis of research suggests that a dose of 2 to 3 grams of omega-3 fatty acids may lower both systolic and diastolic blood pressure. Specifically, 2 grams of omega-3 fatty acids were found to lower systolic blood pressure by 2.61 and diastolic blood pressure by 1.64. Meanwhile, 3 grams of omega-3 fatty acids lowered systolic blood pressure by 2.61 and diastolic blood pressure by 1.8. The analysis also found that taking more than 3 grams of omega-3 fatty acids may further increase this effect.
If you already have low blood pressure or take medications to lower your blood pressure, taking fish oil supplements may cause your blood pressure to drop too low. Therefore, it is important to consult with a doctor before taking fish oil or any new supplement, especially if you have other health conditions.
It is worth noting that the Dietary Guidelines for Americans 2020–2025 recommend that adults eat at least 8 ounces of seafood (fish or shellfish) weekly to obtain omega-3 fatty acids. Seafood contains beneficial omega-3 fatty acids, and other nutrients that contribute to the health benefits associated with fish oil. Fish oil supplements do not contain these other nutrients, and it is easier to exceed the recommended dosage when taking supplements compared to consuming whole foods.
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Frequently asked questions
Fish oil supplements are often taken for their anti-inflammatory properties, which can help with joint pain and stiffness caused by arthritis. However, there is no evidence that they cause muscle aches. In fact, some studies suggest that fish oil can attenuate muscle stiffness and soreness after exercise.
Fish oil supplements are generally well-tolerated at the recommended dose of 0.45g per day of omega-3 fatty acids. However, taking too much fish oil can lead to adverse effects such as low blood pressure, acid reflux, diarrhea, headaches, and an increased risk of atrial fibrillation.
If you experience any side effects after taking fish oil supplements, consult your healthcare provider. It is important to monitor your intake and be aware of potential vitamin A toxicity from certain types of fish oil, such as cod liver oil.
