From the Guidelines
Taking two fish oil supplements containing 3600 mg fish oil, 1296 mg EPA, and 864 mg DHA daily is generally considered safe for most people with peripheral neuropathy, but consulting with a healthcare provider is recommended before starting this regimen. A total daily intake of 7200 mg fish oil (2592 mg EPA and 1728 mg DHA) falls within the upper tolerable limits for most adults, as supported by the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) conclusion that long-term supplemental intakes of EPA and DHA combined up to about 5 g/day do not appear to increase the risk of spontaneous bleeding episodes or bleeding complications 1. Potential side effects at higher doses may include:
- Digestive issues like fishy aftertaste, bad breath, heartburn, nausea, or loose stools
- Increased bleeding risk, especially if taking blood thinners, although this risk is considered low by the EFSA 1 Fish oil supplements may help peripheral neuropathy symptoms by reducing inflammation and improving nerve function, as suggested by studies on the protective effects of fish oil on chemotherapy-induced toxicities like peripheral neuropathy 1. For best absorption and to minimize digestive discomfort, take the supplements with meals and consider starting with one capsule daily before gradually increasing to the full dose. If any concerning side effects develop, reduce the dosage or discontinue use and consult a healthcare provider. It is also important to note that while there is no convincing clinical evidence to show interactions of fish oil and anticancer drug effectivity, patients receiving ibrutinib should be counseled to avoid fish oil supplements due to the associated risk of epistaxis 1. Additionally, lifestyle changes such as cardio-exercise and nutritional intervention strategies, including increasing the ratio of omega-3 to omega-6 fatty acids, may also be beneficial in managing peripheral neuropathy symptoms 1.
From the Research
Safety of Fish Oil Supplements for Peripheral Neuropathy
- There is no direct evidence to suggest that taking 2 daily doses of a fish oil supplement containing 3600 mg of fish oil, 1296 mg of EPA, and 864 mg of DHA is unsafe for individuals with peripheral neuropathy 2, 3, 4, 5, 6.
- However, it is essential to note that the studies reviewed did not specifically investigate the safety of this exact dosage and composition of fish oil supplements.
Potential Benefits of Fish Oil Supplements for Peripheral Neuropathy
- Fish oil supplements have been shown to have anti-inflammatory and neuroprotective properties, which may be beneficial for individuals with peripheral neuropathy 2, 3, 4, 5, 6.
- Studies have demonstrated that omega-3 fatty acids, particularly EPA and DHA, may help alleviate neuropathic pain and improve nerve function in individuals with diabetic peripheral neuropathy 2, 3, 4, 6.
Potential Side Effects of Fish Oil Supplements
- The studies reviewed did not report any significant side effects associated with fish oil supplements 3, 5.
- However, high doses of fish oil supplements may cause gastrointestinal side effects, such as fishy aftertaste, belching, and diarrhea, although these were not reported in the studies reviewed.