There are treatments possible for many diseases. Most of the times, we try home remedies, or, we depend on the effectiveness of supplements. However, sometimes, certain combination of medications and treating health conditions may not work. This is particularly when you forgot to consult your healthcare service provider beforehand.

Here, we are elaborating on rather an interesting and trending matter. It is the question whether you can consume fish oil capsules while suffering from seafood allergy. We have sought the written suggestions of various sources, hence, thoroughly read before concluding.

Seafood Allergy: Condition and Causes

The simple answer is that it is the allergic reaction to seafood. However, not all sufferers show symptoms after eating all kinds of seafood. Some folks are just allergic to fish. Others might only show symptoms if they consume mollusks and shellfish. 

The reason is the presence of certain proteins and enzymes in seafood. For instance, there is a calcium-binding protein, which is also called parvalbumin. On the other hand, tropomyosins or muscle proteins are also the cause; however, these allergens are present in shellfish. Some other fish allergy allergens are fish gelatin, aldolases and enolases.

Any kind of fish can lead to an allergic reaction. However, the most common ones are tuna, halibut and salmon. Some of these reactions are serious and require immediate medical evaluation. The signs of seafood allergies include diarrhea, vomiting, hives and swelling of face. Certain dangerous signs are difficulty talking and breathing, tongue swelling, throat tightness and dizziness. 

Before consuming packaged or processed food, always check the label for ingredients.

Taking Fish Oil Capsules with Seafood Allergy

If you are allergic to fish, avoid taking fish oil or its supplements. Nevertheless, as per another source, there is no clarity on whether taking omega-3 fatty acid supplements is okay if you have a fish allergy. 

There was a study conducted to resolve this matter. The research included six participants who were allergic to finned fish. However, after taking fish oil supplements, they showed zero signs of allergic reaction. 

According to a case report, a woman, who was experiencing seafood allergy, depicted severe signs after consuming fish oil capsules. Her signs included chest tightness, breath shortness, and swelling. Besides, the capsules were prescribed. She got rid of the fish oil and soon her symptoms started fading. 

Alternatives to Fish Oil Capsules

There are alternatives to best fish oil supplement capsules. They are vegetarian omega-3 supplements. Hemp oil and flaxseed oil are common examples. Also, there is the matter of efficiency, as seafood omega-3 fatty acids are more effective as compared to the ones from plant sources. Therefore, it is important to ask your healthcare provider whether using vegetarian omega-3 supplements is fine or not. Do not forget to mention the reason behind this shift, which is the fish allergy.

We have found some brand products which are basically the substitute supplements. For instance, there is Nordic Naturals Algae Omega which has 390 mg of DHA and 195 mg of EPA. Also, it is vegan omega-3 and algae-based vegetarian product. 

Another option is Sundown Naturals Omega 3-6-9. The cold-pressed sunflower seed oil and flaxseed oil are the sources of its fatty acids. Therefore, it is a vegetarian product. The amount of omega-3 fatty acids in it is 495 mg. Try finding these products online or from a nearby supplement store.

What to Avoid?

You have to show extra care while eating out. Search for the safest restaurant which serves vegan or vegetarian food. You can thoroughly review the menu as well. Ask the server or the chef of the restaurant regarding the ingredients. 

Furthermore, never forget to bring your rescue medication. You might need it at any moment. In case of severe allergies like shellfish allergy, you have to be careful about the non-food sources of shellfish as well. For example, there is pet food, fish food, fertilizers and some calcium supplements. Also, you can avoid certain recipes, such as Mam tom, Gumbo, Scampi, Cioppino, Ceviche, and Jambalaya.

Taking Fish Oil Capsules with Seafood Allergy: The FAQs

Can I take fish oil if I have a seafood allergy?

For safety purposes, you should avoid taking fish oil if you are allergic to seafood. This is because of the possibility of reaction, sometimes, the severe ones. 

Should I take fish oil if I don’t eat seafood?

Fish oil or its supplements are quite useful. Basically, they are good alternatives if you do not eat seafood. They are the sources of EPA and DHA, the omega-3 fatty acids.

Who cannot take fish oil capsules?

Anyone who is allergic to soybeans, fish, or shellfish should not take fish oil capsules. Moreover, it is not recommended for pregnant or breastfeeding women. It is a big no-no for ladies who are trying to conceive. 

What supplements should I avoid if I have a shellfish allergy?

As per the advice of the experts, it is not suitable to take glucosamine if you have shellfish allergy. 

What do you take for seafood allergy?

During the initial stage of the reaction, take Epinephrine. Next, you should look for urgent medical assistance.

Conclusion

Seafood allergy has many types. Some victims are only allergic to fish while others just show symptoms after being exposed to shellfish. However, the allergic reaction always requires immediate medical care. Some of such signs encompass swelling, difficulty talking, diarrhea, vomiting and throat tightness. Hence, the signs can be mild or severe.

Today’s main question was whether fish oil capsules are effective for treating seafood allergy. Simply put, you should avoid this attempt. As per the experiments and sources, the results were different. For instance, some people did not show any symptoms while others led to severity of the allergic reaction. Therefore, it is always best to stay at the safe side and this is what most experts suggest.

Furthermore, always keep the medications for seafood allergy with you. In case you are eating out, discuss this matter with the chef or servers of the restaurant. Avoid consuming dishes that contain fish-based ingredients. Also, be careful of the non-food sources too.