Fish Oils
What does Fish Oil do? Omega-3 PUFAs present in fish oil help maintain normal cardiovascular function (i.e. normal aggregation of blood platelets, formation of thrombi, blood triglyceride levels, and blood pressure). Omega-3 PUFAs are important in the normal functioning of theimmune/inflammatory response. Omega-3 PUFAs are required for the normal development and function of the brain. How much Fish Oil should you take? The generally recommended intake is 1000mg taken 3 times daily. Are there adverse effects from taking Fish Oil? Fish oil is generally well tolerated, although gastrointestinal disturbance may occasionally occur. There are no reports of serious adverse effects from taking fish oil. Large doses of fish oil supplements may result in a significant increase in total calorie intake. Patients taking anticoagulants should exercise caution if taking supplements containing Omega-3 PUFAs, which may inhibit blood clotting. Patients with diabetes should exercise caution if taking fish oil supplements. Cod liver oil should not be used as a source of omega-3 PUFAs, as it contains high levels of vitamin A and vitamin D, both of which can be toxic in high doses. High doses of folic acid may interfere with anti-convulsive medicines prescribed for epileptics.
