While omega-3 fatty acids are usually safe, they can present side effects at elevated doses. One notable concern, as highlighted by the Cleveland Clinic, is a heightened risk of bleeding, especially with high-dose prescription fish oil. Omega-3s function as natural blood thinners, which can slightly impede blood clotting through their influence on platelet function.
A recent study published in May 2024 in the Journal of the American Heart Association investigated whether omega-3 supplements heighten bleeding risks, paying close attention to dosage and the concurrent use of anticoagulants. Researchers scrutinized data from 11 randomized clinical trials involving 120,643 participants up to May 2023.
The findings indicated that omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs) generally do not contribute to an increased bleeding risk. Nevertheless, individuals consuming high doses of purified eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA), a specific form of omega-3, might experience a minor uptick in bleeding risk—though this increase is slight and probably not clinically relevant.
Before initiating an omega-3 supplement, it is crucial to speak with your healthcare provider, particularly if you have a history of bleeding disorders, are on blood-thinning medications, or have an upcoming medical procedure. Your doctor can recommend the safest dosage or offer alternatives to minimize potential risks.
Atrial fibrillation (AFib) is an additional serious side effect linked to omega-3 supplements derived from prescription fish oil. AFib denotes an irregular heartbeat, which can elevate the chances of blood clots, stroke, and heart failure. A recent study published in May 2024 within the British Medical Journal explored the impact of regular fish oil supplementation on the development and progression of cardiovascular disease, involving over 415,000 participants at various stages of heart health.
For generally healthy individuals, the study’s results indicated that regular supplementation with fish oil might slightly increase the risk of developing AFib or experiencing a stroke. Conversely, in participants with pre-existing heart conditions, fish oil appeared to provide protective effects, potentially decelerating the transition from AFib to more serious complications and reducing the risk of heart failure-related mortality. These findings suggest that the influence of fish oil on heart health may differ based on an individual’s cardiovascular condition, emphasizing the need for further investigations.
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