Fish Oil Side Effects in Children

Fish oil is a dietary supplement, which is extracted from the fatty tissues of fish like tuna, cod, mackerel, salmon, etc. This fat is then manufactured into pills or capsules and sold in the market. Fish oil capsules are very popular since they have a number of health benefits. This oil is a rich source of omega 3 essential fatty acids, which is good for the heart's and the overall cardiovascular health. Fish oil for children is also beneficial since it helps in both physical and mental development. A healthy, glowing skin, thick hair, strong immune system are some of the fish oil benefits and side effects can occur if there is an overdose or if the fish from which the oil is extracted is contaminated due to mercury poisoning or other toxins. Before we take a look at some of the fish oil side effects, let us discuss the health benefits of consuming this supplement.

Health Benefits of Fish Oil Supplement

Our body is unable to produce omega 3 fatty acids, hence we derive it from fish and other supplements of fish oil in the form of capsules. There are many health benefits of fish oil, since they contain eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA), which are the two major components of omega 3 fatty acids. Given below are some of the health benefits of consuming fish oil supplements.

• One of the major benefits of omega 3 fish oil is that this supplement helps in fighting against the symptoms of cardiovascular diseases and keeps this condition at bay. It also keeps a check on the blood pressure and ensures the proper functioning of the heart.
• It has anti-inflammatory properties and reduces the inflammation and pain caused due to conditions like rheumatoid arthritis, osteoporosis etc. It also helps in soothing the burning sensation in the gastrointestinal tract caused due to colitis and ulcers.
• When taken by pregnant women, it helps in the proper growth and development of the fetus, especially the brain and eyes. It also reduces the risk of a premature delivery.
• Benefits of fish oil for skin include clear skin without blemishes, acne or scars. The skin also glows with health from within.
• Other benefits of taking fish oil supplement include fighting against depression and stress, a healthy weight loss etc.

Side Effects of Fish Oil

Nowadays water is contaminated with a number of pollutants. These pollutants can in turn contaminate the fish and the oil extracted from them can cause harm to people consuming it. An overdose of this nutritional supplement can also have some adverse side effects. Here are some fish oil supplement side effects, which must be brought to the immediate notice of the doctor to avoid further complications.

• One of the possible side effects of fish oil is the occurrence of skin rashes, which may appear as small, red boils and itch a lot.
• The negative effects of fish oil in children are persistent diarrhea, symptoms related to flu, fever etc. These side effects can occur due to the long-term usage of fish oil supplements, without proper consultation.
• Another ill effect of fish oil due to a high dose is a feeling of fullness or bloating sensation. Pain in the abdominal region, indigestion, heartburn and burping can also occur as a reaction to excessive dose of fish oil capsules.
• An overdose can result in thinning of the blood, increase in the levels of vitamins in the body leading to toxicity, trouble in clotting of blood. Fish oil side effects in children can be seen as nosebleed, allergies, fishy smell in the mouth etc.
• Too much fish oil supplements intake can result in some severe side effects like brain hemorrhage, which can lead to brain damage, stroke, excessive bleeding and rise in the levels of bad cholesterol or LDL in the blood, resulting in heart attacks.

These were some of the negative effects fish oil may have on the body, in case of over-consumption. This dietary supplement must be taken in the required quantity only after discussing the dosage with a medical practitioner. If any of the fish oil side effects in children or adults are observed, then it is advisable to consult a doctor immediately.