Last Reviewed:June 27, 2023 by Gabrielle Marks
Can Fish Oil Cause Constipation?
Fish oil does not cause constipation. Omega-3 fish oil does have a few isolated side effects, but constipation is not widely recognized as one of them. In fact, one of the widely accepted side effects of taking omega-3 supplements is diarrhea.
Omega-3 fatty acids are dietary micronutrients that are essential for the body to work properly. Most of the body’s omega-3 acids are obtained through the food that a person eats. Some people choose to supplement the amount of omega-3 fatty acids they consume. Products such as fish oil and flaxseed have high levels of omega 3.
Jump Ahead
- Mild Omega-3 Fish Oil Supplement Side Effects
- Moderate Omega-3 Fish Oil Supplement Side Effects
- More Serious Omega-3 Fish Oil Supplement Side Effects
- Additional Omega-3 Supplement Side Effects
- Ways to Ease Omega-3 Supplement Side Effects
- Resources
Mild Omega-3 Fish Oil Supplement Side Effects
Some mild side effects are common when taking omega-3 supplements, including unpleasant aftertaste, bad breath, burping, bloating, and bad-smelling sweat. [1]
Moderate Omega-3 Fish Oil Supplement Side Effects
Beyond bad breath, a few common side effects are a bit more unpleasant and include headache, heartburn, nausea, and diarrhea. [2] Side effects most commonly occur in higher doses of omega-3 supplements.
More Serious Omega-3 Fish Oil Supplement Side Effects
More serious side effects of fish oil supplementation are generally linked with high doses and may include inhibiting blood clotting, which can increase the chance of bleeding, nosebleeds, and possibly stroke. High doses of fish oil may also interfere with the immune system reducing the body’s ability to fight infection. This is especially problematic for those that are on medications to suppress the immune system, such as organ transplant recipients. [3]
You should inform your physician if you notice any of these symptoms while taking omega-3 fatty acids.
Additional Omega-3 Supplement Side Effects
There are many studies documenting side effects when taking Omega-3 supplements that are not yet widely recognized and warrant further study. One such study suggests that supplements lower blood pressure. [4]
This side effect could be a benefit for those suffering from hypertension but could be a cause for concern for those with low blood pressure problems.
Ways to Ease Omega-3 Supplement Side Effects
You can possibly ease the side effects of Omega 3 fish oils by ensuring that you take them after you have eaten. Some have suggested that freezing the pills also helps to ease side effects symptoms. [5]
Resources – Can Fish Oil Cause Constipation?
- [1][2] National Center for Complementary and Integrated Health – US Department of Health and Human Services – “What Do We Know About the Safety of Omega-3’s?”
- [3][5] WebMD – “Fish Oil Supplements: Uses, Side Effects, Interactions, Dosage, and Warnings.”
- [4] Naini, Afsoon Emami. “Effect of Omega-3 fatty acids on blood pressure and serum lipids in continuous ambulatory peritoneal dialysis patients.” Journal of Research in Pharmacy Practice. 2015 July-Sept. Vol: 4, No: 3, pp: 135-141.
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