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Side Effects FAQs

Are there any side effects caused by taking fish oils?

Fish oils have many health-enhancing properties, but like any natural foodstuff it is important not to consume excessive amounts - taking purified fish oils will not result in any serious side effects, however. High doses of concentrated fish oil may cause slight stomach upset and speed up bowel movements although this is extremely rare.  Should this occur, it is advisable to reduce the daily intake and seek professional medical advice.

While EPA is generally extremely beneficial for the cardiovascular system, due to its blood-thinning properties, individuals taking blood-thinning medication such as Warfarin or Heparin injections should not take high strength fish oils.

Please note: the above information relates only to Igennus’ products. Consuming high doses of ordinary fish oils is not advisable given potential concerns about the levels of heavy metals, PCBs and Vitamin A in less purified products.

Can I take Vegepa if I am a Vegan?

Igennus have now brought out Echiomega which is a vegetarian formulation of omega fatty acids, which delivers superior health benefits over the commonly available vegetarian oil preparations. Containing the omega-3 fatty acid stearidonic acid (SDA) from the plant Echium Plantagineum, it is naturally converted to the important long-chain omega-3 fatty acid EPA in the body, but up to five times more than other botanical omega-3 oils.

GMO-free, Dairy-free, Gluten-free, Yeast-free, Cholesterol-free, Source of SDA, Source of GLA, Vegetarian precursor to EPA, No artificial flavours, colours or preservatives - Echium oil is the ideal nutritional supplement for those who are vegetarian, vegan or allergic to fish, to help boost the levels of the important omega fats in the diet.

Is it safe to take EPA while also taking anti-depressants?

The omega-3 polyunsaturate EPA is a natural component of food and is safe to be taken in conjunction with anti-depressant medication. Some leading doctors, such as Professor B.K. Puri, use EPA in combination with anti-depressants to increase the speed of recovery. 

Nevertheless we would advise that you always consult your GP about taking any supplements alongside anti-depressants. It is important not to stop taking any medication suddenly.

Does Vegepa make you put on weight?

Vegepa contains 4.5 calories per capsule, therefore it is extremely unlikely that any individual would gain any weight as a result of taking Vegepa daily.

The many benefits of taking a purified fatty acid supplement (which enhance the functioning of all living cells and will in fact regulate body mass) should outweigh any concerns about weight gain. Some studies suggest that taking a fish oil supplement in conjunction with regular exercise actually speeds up weight loss over exercise alone.

In “Chronic Fatigue Syndrome – A Natural Way to Treat ME”, Professor Puri writes:

“You need not worry that taking a supplement such as Vegepa may cause an increase in your body weight. In fact, if anything, if you are overweight to begin with, you may well notice that you start to become slimmer"


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