Is Fish Oil Safe for My Son's Platelet Levels? Expert Insights

Q: Is Fish Oil Safe for My Son's Platelet Levels? Expert Insights

Hello Mr. <br>Zheng： The normal range for human platelets is 150,000 to 450,000/μl. <br>According to the recommendations from the U.S. <br>Food and Drug Administration (FDA), the safe and reliable daily intake of fish oil for the general population is between 2000 to 3000 milligr

Is this platelet condition suitable for taking fish oil?

Hello Dr.
Liu, my son (who is 21 years old) has had platelet counts (PLT) ranging from 210 to 240 (10^3/μl) from elementary school through college health check-ups.
Recently, I would like him to take three fish oil capsules daily (with a total of 900 mg of EPA and 300 mg of DHA).
However, I have heard that fish oil can inhibit blood coagulation, so I would like to ask you: 1) Given that my son's PLT is consistently between 210 and 240, which seems a bit low (as my PLT is around 260 to 280 at 52 years old), will taking three fish oil capsules daily cause issues with his coagulation function? Will it increase the risk of internal bleeding as mentioned online? 2) When it is said that fish oil inhibits blood coagulation, does it mean "fish oil directly reduces the number of platelets in the blood, thereby inhibiting coagulation," or does it mean "it does not reduce the number of platelets in the blood, but it inhibits the coagulation process"? Thank you, doctor.

Zheng, 50~59 year old female. Ask Date: 2023/09/11

Dr. Liu Hongxiang reply Family Medicine

Hello Mr.
Zheng: The normal range for human platelets is 150,000 to 450,000/μl.
According to the recommendations from the U.S.
Food and Drug Administration (FDA), the safe and reliable daily intake of fish oil for the general population is between 2000 to 3000 milligrams of EPA and DHA.
Fish oil has the following effects: 1.
It reduces platelet aggregation, making thrombus formation less likely and increasing coagulation time.
2.
It affects blood viscosity: Omega-3 fatty acids can thin the blood, reducing viscosity, which decreases resistance within the blood vessels and lowers coagulation function.
Abnormal coagulation function may occur with high doses of fish oil, the use of anticoagulants, or pre-existing coagulation issues, but it is safe to consume within the recommended dosage.
Wishing you good health and well-being.
Physician Liu Hongxiang

Reply Date: 2023/09/11

More Info

When considering the safety of fish oil for your son's platelet levels, it's essential to understand both the effects of fish oil on blood coagulation and the significance of platelet counts. Your son's platelet count, ranging from 210,000 to 240,000 per microliter, falls within the normal range (150,000 to 450,000 per microliter). While it may seem lower compared to your own levels, it is still considered normal and not a cause for concern.

1. Impact of Fish Oil on Coagulation: Fish oil, particularly due to its omega-3 fatty acids (EPA and DHA), is known to have anticoagulant properties. This means that it can reduce platelet aggregation, making it less likely for blood clots to form. However, the doses you mentioned (900 mg of EPA and 300 mg of DHA) are well within the safe range recommended by health authorities. The American Heart Association suggests that for general heart health, a daily intake of 1,000 mg of combined EPA and DHA is beneficial, and higher doses may be used under medical supervision for specific conditions.

The concern about increased bleeding risk typically arises with much higher doses of fish oil or when combined with other anticoagulant medications. At the doses you are considering, it is unlikely that your son would experience significant changes in his coagulation profile or an increased risk of bleeding. However, it is always prudent to monitor for any unusual symptoms, such as easy bruising or prolonged bleeding from cuts, especially when introducing any supplement.

2. Mechanism of Action: The statement that fish oil "inhibits blood coagulation" does not imply that it reduces the number of platelets in the bloodstream. Instead, fish oil affects the function of platelets, making them less sticky and less likely to clump together. This action can lead to a longer bleeding time but does not equate to a reduction in platelet count. Therefore, your son can safely consume fish oil without worrying about it lowering his platelet levels or significantly impairing his coagulation ability.

In summary, given your son's normal platelet levels and the moderate dosage of fish oil you are considering, it should be safe for him to take fish oil daily. However, it is always best to consult with a healthcare provider before starting any new supplement, especially if there are underlying health concerns or if he is taking other medications. Regular monitoring of his platelet levels and overall health can provide peace of mind and ensure that any potential issues are addressed promptly.

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