Side Effects of GNC Triple Strength Fish Oil

Triple-strength GNC fish oil is a supplement used to add omega-3 fatty acids to a person’s diet. It comes in a soft capsule that is taken once a day for a total of 900 mg of omega-3 fatty acids, according to Drugstore.com. The American Heart Association recommends eating fish or consuming omega-3 supplements for its cardiovascular benefits. According to AmericanHeart.org, the benefits of this type of change in the diet include a reduction in blood pressure, a lower number of cholesterol and a decrease in the growth of plaque in the heart. As with any supplement, it is important to contact your doctor before using triple strength GNC fish oil. There is a risk of side effects with this supplement, but when taken correctly, the risk should be small.

Common Side Effects

One of the common complaints about fish oil supplements is the fishy taste and the fishy smell produced by belching after taking the supplement. Triple-strength GNC fish oil has a special coating that allows the soft gel capsule to break down and be absorbed by the small intestine, according to Drugstore.com. GNC.com states that the oils have been purified to reduce fish odor. According to the National Institute of Health at NLM.NIH.gov, mild to severe gastrointestinal discomfort or diarrhea can occur with the use of triple-strength GNC fish oil. Increased belching, acid reflux, heartburn, indigestion, abdominal distension and abdominal pain are possible symptoms related to a gastrointestinal disorder. Take the supplement with food to minimize this risk.

Less common Side Effects

The NIH notes that occasionally omega-3 fatty acids may increase the risk of bleeding, but there is little evidence to support it. Large doses can cause hemorrhages in the form of nosebleeds and blood in the urine. Taking fish oil as recommended by the GNC, which is one capsule per day, should not produce this type of serious side effect. Due to the reduction in blood pressure of fish oil supplements, the NIH warns users that they already have low blood pressure. They report that the risk is low, but any sign of a fall in blood pressure would require that supplementation be discontinued.

High Risk People

People who have diabetes, are pregnant or breastfeeding should consult a doctor before consuming fish oil supplements. According to the NIH, diabetics may have an increase in blood sugar levels, but report that this may be unlikely. Fatty fish may contain mercury at levels higher than those recommended for pregnant or lactating women. The use of fish oil supplements can increase the risk of exposure to mercury, since the oil is made from a variety of fish from different locations.