| Basics |
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Fish is rich in omega-3 fatty acids. These are a form of polyunsaturated fat that's chemically different from the omega-6 fatty acids found in most vegetable oils. Omega-3 fatty acids are one type of essential fatty acids, special fats that the body needs as much as it needs vitamins.
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| Remedy For |
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Blood triglyceride- a type of fat in the blood that tends to damage the arteries, leading to heart disease.
Thickening of blood.
Rheumatoid arthritis.
Raynaud's phenomenon (a condition in which a person's hands and feet show abnormal sensitivity to cold temperatures.
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| Prevention |
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Heart diseases.
Premature birth.
Menstrual pain.
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| Usage Directions |
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Typical dosages of fish oil are 3 to 9 g daily. There is no daily requirement for fish oil. However, a healthy diet should provide at least 5 g of essential fatty acids daily.
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| Sources |
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Many grains, fruits, vegetables, and vegetable oils contain significant amounts of essential omega-6 and/or omega-3 fatty acids. Cod liver oil is the most common form of fish oil, but it may not be the best for reasons of safety. Salmon oil, mackerel oil, halibut oil, and the oils from other cold-water fish might be better choices.
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| Possible Side Effects |
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Fishy odor, upset stomach or intestines.
Increased bleeding, nosebleeds, easy bruising.
Can increase cholesterol in people with combined hyperlipidemia.
Can increase calorie intake and weight gain.
Some preparations have added cholesterol.
Some lack vitamin E; concern for oxidation.
Vitamin A and D toxicity in some preparations; pesticide in some fish oils (not highly refined).
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| Overdose |
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Acute overdose: None
Chronic overdose: None
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| Caution |
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Though fish oil does not appear to raise blood sugar levels in people with diabetes, nonetheless, if you have diabetes, you should not take any supplement except on the advice of a physician
Fish oil may temporarily raise the level of LDL ("bad") cholesterol
If you decide to use cod liver oil as your fish oil supplement, make sure you do not exceed the safe
maximum intake of vitamin A and vitamin D
If you are taking Coumadin (warfarin) or heparin, do not take fish oil except on the advice of a physician
Due to its very high levels of vitamin A and vitamin D, pregnant women should not take cod liver oil without consulting a nutritionally oriented doctor
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