Fish oil: an overdose. Symptoms and Treatment

All of us from childhood have been told about the unique useful properties of fish oil. Our mothers forced us to take this valuable natural substance enriched with vitamins A and D. This product is derived from cod liver, so it contains a large amount of fatty omega-3 acids. After reading today's article, you will find out whether an overdose of fish oil is possible and what it threatens.

What is this remedy?

The increased interest in this additive began to manifest itself in the late 70s of the last century. It was then that scientists came to the conclusion that the Eskimos and other inhabitants of the Far North, feeding mainly on fish, practically do not suffer from cardiovascular diseases. But these health problems arise immediately after the products that are familiar to residents of other regions appear in their diet.

As a result of long observations, scientists came to the conclusion that the reason for maintaining the ideal level of cholesterol in the blood is covered in abundance of fatty fish. After all, it is she who is considered the best source of essential omega-3 acids. Fish oil, an overdose of which will be considered below, is an amber liquid with a unique composition. It is obtained from herring, mackerel and cod.

Chemical composition of the product

It contains fatty omega-3 acids, which have very valuable properties. They help to reduce the risk of blood clots, vasodilatation, normalization of blood pressure. In addition, this component improves the recovery processes occurring in the human body, and has a positive effect on the condition of the skin, hair and nails.

Nevertheless, very carefully it is worth taking fish oil: an overdose of this substance is not very pleasant consequences. The substance is rich in vitamins A and D. The first promotes the removal of free radicals, helps maintain eye health and supports immunity. The second takes an active part in the assimilation of phosphorus and calcium, necessary for the formation of bone tissue. In addition, the composition of fish oil, there are antioxidants. These substances inhibit the aging process of the human body.

Today, some manufacturers produce this drug in the form of tablets. And people take fish oil in capsules. Overdose is accompanied by not very pleasant symptoms and requires immediate action, which we will discuss further. Now it is worth noting that the pills consist not only of pure substance, but also of additional components. They contain 70% sorbitol, water, gelatin and glycerol.

Who is shown this tool?

Just note that fish oil, an overdose of which is dangerous for our health, is both a food additive and vitamin-mineral complex. Useful properties of this drug are due to its unique composition. It is often recommended to take people with a weakened immune system. It is considered the best prevention of rickets. It is indicated to the owners of excessively dry skin, on which wounds and ulcers appear periodically. Also, cod liver oil is prescribed for those diagnosed with ophthalmic and dental pathologies, disruption of the endocrine, urogenital and digestive system.

Contraindications

Despite all the useful properties of this drug, there is a whole list of conditions in which it is undesirable to take this supplement. Fish oil, an overdose of which is considered a serious enough problem, is contraindicated in hypervitaminosis, tuberculosis, hemophilia, chronic pancreatitis and peptic ulcer. Also it is forbidden to take it to people who have kidney and liver pathologies. It is undesirable to use this medication for the elderly and nursing mothers. Another reason for abandoning fish oil is the individual intolerance of one of its components.

Overdose of fish oil: symptoms

Treatment of this problem should appoint a specialist. It will largely depend on how the disease manifests itself. We note at once that to reduce the risks of the appearance of potential side effects you need to take a refined product. The surplus of vitamin A contained in this supplement can lead to a decrease in appetite, increased intracranial pressure, bone pain and the development of excessive sensitivity to sunlight. It can also lead to dizziness, drowsiness, nausea and cracks on the lips.

Sometimes, children can overdose with fish oil. Children are often forced to take this drug adults - too zealous parents can overdo with the norm. As a result, an overdose can be accompanied by a decrease in body weight, kidney failure, muscle rigidity, acidosis, constipation and other problems with the intestines. All these symptoms can cause an excess of vitamin D. As for children, they are often observed such changes as poor growth, excessive irritability and poor development.

How is an overdose of fish oil treated?

Symptoms that accompany this problem, we have already considered. Therefore, it's time to talk about ways to eliminate them. The first thing to do when there is a suspicion of an overdose is to stop taking the drug. If the symptoms of an overabundance of vitamin D contained in it appear in the summer, you should temporarily refuse to visit the solarium and reduce exposure to the sun. Going out into the street, wear light closed clothes and observe the drinking regimen. At least during the first few days after the appearance of signs of an overdose try to use ordinary non-carbonated water.

Recommended daily average norms of the drug

Now we know that sometimes fish oil is dangerous - an overdose in adults and children causes serious health problems. Therefore, we need to tell you how to use it properly. At once we shall tell, that before use of the given additive it is desirable to consult with the doctor. Because only a specialist can correctly calculate the dosage. She is selected strictly individually, taking into account the age, weight and sex of the patient.

As a rule, children under the age of one year are prescribed six to ten drops of fish oil. And the recommended daily dose should be divided into two doses. Preschoolers are given two teaspoons of the drug, and children over seven years are recommended to take three measuring spoons twice a day. With regard to fish oil, issued in the form of capsules, all information regarding the dosage is indicated on the insert attached to the preparation. Typically, this packaging is designed for an adult, and the average daily rate is about six tablets, which need to be divided into three doses.

Helpful Tips

To get the maximum effect and to prevent the occurrence of unpleasant symptoms, it is not enough to know the dosage. In addition, you need to comply with a number of recommendations for the intake of fish oil. Use this drug preferably in the process of eating, along with soups or salads.

We must understand that a single reception will not bring the expected results. To obtain a lasting effect, it is necessary to consume fish oil regularly for one or two months. Also, do not exceed the recommended time, since the accumulation of vitamin A can lead to negative consequences, which we have already mentioned. In addition, this supplement is contraindicated in people who have an elevated calcium content.

Categorically forbidden to use this drug on an empty stomach, because this can cause problems with digestion. The correct intake of fish oil will help you get rid of extra pounds, saturate the body with the necessary vitamins and improve your overall well-being.