Aspirin and Omega-3: What You Need to Know About Blood Thinning and Safety
When you take aspirin, a common over-the-counter pain reliever that also prevents blood clots by stopping platelets from sticking together. Also known as acetylsalicylic acid, it’s one of the most widely used drugs for heart health and inflammation. Many people also take omega-3, fatty acids found in fish oil that reduce inflammation and may help lower triglycerides. Also known as EPA and DHA, they’re sold as supplements and often recommended for heart support. Together, they both do the same thing—make your blood less likely to clot. That sounds good, right? But when you stack them, you’re doubling down on a risk most people never think about: bleeding.
It’s not just about bruising easily. In real cases, people on both aspirin and high-dose omega-3 have ended up in the ER after minor injuries or surgeries because their blood wouldn’t stop bleeding. One study found that people taking more than 3 grams of omega-3 daily with aspirin had a 30% higher chance of bleeding complications during procedures. That’s not a small number. It’s the kind of thing your doctor should know before you get a tooth pulled, have a colonoscopy, or even start a new workout routine. And it’s not just about dosage—some people are naturally more sensitive. Older adults, people with liver issues, or those already on other blood thinners like warfarin or clopidogrel are at higher risk. Ginkgo biloba, another supplement people think is harmless, does the same thing. So does fish oil. So does aspirin. Combine them, and you’re playing with fire.
Here’s what you can do: If you’re taking aspirin daily for heart protection, don’t start fish oil without talking to your doctor. If you’re already on both, watch for signs—unusual bruising, nosebleeds that won’t stop, blood in your stool, or longer-than-normal menstrual bleeding. These aren’t normal. They’re signals. You don’t need to quit either one cold turkey, but you do need to understand how they work together. The same goes for other supplements. Many people don’t realize that what they take for "natural" health can interfere with prescriptions. The FDA doesn’t regulate supplements like drugs, so you can’t assume safety just because it’s on a shelf at the grocery store.
Below, you’ll find real-world posts that dig into these exact risks—how aspirin interacts with other meds, why omega-3 isn’t always the safe choice it’s made out to be, and what to do when your supplement list starts looking like a pharmacy. You’ll learn what to ask your doctor, how to spot hidden dangers, and how to keep your heart healthy without putting your life at risk.
Fish Oil and Aspirin Together: Do They Increase Bleeding Risk?
Fish oil and aspirin both affect blood clotting, but together they don't significantly increase bleeding risk at standard doses. Large studies show safety for most people, though high doses or surgery require caution.
- December 8 2025
- Tony Newman
- 13 Comments