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Ask Dr. Block
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Fish Oil
Question: What are the side effects from taking the fish oil supplement ArcticBlox?
Answer: “ArcticBlox” is the enterically-coated fish oil supplement formulated specifically by the Block Center. Enteric coating is important because many people experience an aftertaste, fishy burps and belching when taking fish oil. Also many patients undergoing treatment experience fat malabsoption syndrome or what might be called a ‘sensitive stomach’. By enterically coating the softgel, the discomfort of taking fish oil is usually greatly reduced. In addition, it contains a greatly reduced amount of omega-6 fatty acids and 250% more EPA than what is found in the majority of comparable products.
Scientific research has pointed to a number of important health benefits to consuming adequate Omega-3 fatty acid contained in fish oil. We recommend fish oil to many of our patients once they’ve undergone a thorough medical evaluation. However, to err on the side of caution, we suggest all of our patients discontinue the use of fish oil supplements no later than 3 days – and preferably one week – prior to any surgical procedure. To patients not under our care, we suggest you consult with your physician if you have a bleeding disorder, are taking blood thinning medications, on cyclosporine therapy, have diabetes, a platelet/coagulation disorder, a fish or iodine allergy, or are pregnant or suspect you are pregnant before using any fish oil supplement.
At the Block Center, we use supplements such as fish oil, in dosages tailored to the individual patient’s inflammatory, fatty acid profile and other biochemical markers. Some research suggests this may help reduce the ability of the cancer cell to develop resistance to treatment over time, and maintain treatment sensitivity. In addition, Omega 3 fats have demonstrated an ability to regulate/support a healthy inflammatory response, reduce negative emotional states such as anxiety and depression, assist cardiovascular function and improve blood circulation.
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Keith I. Block, M.D.
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