Overdose of Fish Oil: Effects & Restorative Measures

Updated on May 15, 2024

Fish is not all about taste. Alongside its deliciousness is the supply of various nutrients to the human body. Therefore, it is a healthy addition to our diet. There are plenty of dishes out there incorporating fish as their main ingredients. Consider their consumption to enjoy the perks of omega-3s, vitamins, calcium, and more. 

Here, we are articulating the effects of the overdose of fish oil. Learn how much time the omega-3s take to get out of our system. Moreover, determine if there are any severe health issues possible because of this excessive ingestion. 

What Is Fish Oil? Sources and Benefits

Fish oil comes from fatty fish and there are numerous sorts of fish in this category. You can either extract fish oil at home or buy it from the market, particularly, in the form of supplements. One of the advantageous aspects of this oil is that it is a good source of omega-3s, DHA and EPA. Moreover, in terms of fish or shellfish kinds, there are crabs, salmon, trout, oysters, and mackerel. 

Some fish oils also contain other ingredients. For instance, there is fish liver oil that comprises vitamin A and vitamin D. However, keep an eye on the intake of these vitamins as their excessive consumption has more side effects. 

In regards to the dose, generally it is fine to take a maximum of 3000 mg of fish oil on a daily basis. This recommendation is for adults. For best results, always take the advice of your healthcare provider seriously. 

Fish oil has plenty of benefits, mainly because of the presence of omega 3 fatty acids. One of these perks includes a boost in hair growth. It nourishes the hair follicles. Moreover, it is good for your scalp too as it lowers inflammation. Therefore, you might experience improvement in the dryness and dandruff on your scalp. 

The omega-3s in fish oil are effective for your skin. They can cure rough and dry skin to some extent. Moreover, if you are suffering from dermatitis and irritation, try including this supplementation in your lifestyle. Besides, fish oil assists the skin to become immune from skin cancer and UV damage.

Other advantages are lowering blood pressure, slowing muscle loss, and helping people with autism spectrum disorder.

Overdosing Fish oil

Too much of the fish oil intake is a big no-no. You should avoid overdosing to protect your body from various health issues. For instance, it can lead to bleeding. Nosebleeds and bleeding gums are common examples of an overdose of fish oil. This can decrease blood clotting. Hence, before surgery, it is often suggested to stop the intake of fish oil. 

Fish oil lowers blood pressure too. It is best when the patient is suffering from high blood pressure. However, it is not good for the ones that are already experiencing lower blood pressure. Also, fish oil has the tendency to interact with medicines meant to reduce this pressure. Hence, before going for new supplements, ask your healthcare specialist first.

Another disadvantage of fish oil is diarrhea, specifically when you are taking too much of this oil. The smaller amount is better to keep yourself away from stomach upset. Also, it is not just the diarrhea, one can experience continuous flatulence and bloating too. 

As mentioned above, some fish oils comprise vitamin A and a higher intake of it can result in vitamin A toxicity. Such an overdose can lead to joint discomfort, nausea, skin rashes, and vertigo. Also, vitamin poisoning in severe cases can result in brain edema and liver failure. 

Although fish oil can boost heart health, its excessive intake can increase the risk of stroke. As per a source, most of such studies were conducted on animals. Therefore, research on human beings is required. 

Overdose of Fish Oil: The FAQs

How do you get rid of fish oil side effects?

If you are suffering from severe health conditions, kindly talk to your doctor on an urgent basis. Also, you should take fish oil in the frozen form or with meals to reduce the side effects. Limit fish oil dosage in the future. 

What happens if you eat too much oil fish?

Consuming too much fish oil can lead to many health problems. For example, you will start facing stomach problems including diarrhea, bloating, and flatulence. Moreover, if your fish oil contains vitamin A, you will be challenged with skin rashes and joint discomfort. 

How long does it take to get omega-3 out of your system?

If you are consistently taking omega-3 fatty acids for days, they might take a week to get out of your system. However, the absorption and metabolism depend on various factors like age and diet. 

What are the side effects of taking too much omega-3 fatty acids?

There are many side effects like indigestion, bleeding, high blood pressure, nausea, bad breath, rashes, and stroke.

Does fish oil have long-term side effects?

If you consume the right amount of fish oil, you might stay safe from such side effects. Otherwise, there are chances of liver damage and heartburn. 

Conclusion

Fish oil is a product of fatty fish or seafood like shellfish, salmon and trout. There are many ways to avail this oil, like extracting it at home or relying on its supplements. Nevertheless, you should know that fish oil is a pretty good source of omega-3 fatty acids. Some of its kinds also possess vitamin D and vitamin A, however, an overdose of vitamin A is harmful too. 

You should avoid overdosing yourself with fish oil as it can cause many health problems. For example, bleeding, like bleeding gums and nosebleeds, is common. There is reduction in blood clotting too. Hence, anyone having surgery should stop fish oil consumption in advance. 

Another effect is in the form of stomach issues. Take diarrhea for instance. And the effects are not limited to this discomfort; you might suffer from bloating too. The best way to restore your health is consult your doctor and consider treating the diseases or health issues the overdosing has caused. 

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The Editorial Team at Healthcare Business Today is made up of skilled healthcare writers and experts, led by our managing editor, Daniel Casciato, who has over 25 years of experience in healthcare writing. Since 1998, we have produced compelling and informative content for numerous publications, establishing ourselves as a trusted resource for health and wellness information. We offer readers access to fresh health, medicine, science, and technology developments and the latest in patient news, emphasizing how these developments affect our lives.