A woman pinching her nose with a disgusted expression, reacting to a bad smell.

Fish oil body odour isn't just in your head. Yes, that fishy smell some people notice after taking omega-3 supplements is real. Like have you ever taken a fish oil capsule and then suddenly felt like your breath or sweat smells like you’d rolled around in a fish market? It's not the most talked-about side effect, but it is something people deal with. And it can be pretty awkward.

Let’s break it all down of why this happens, who it affects, and what to do about it.

What Exactly Are Omega-3s?

Omega-3s are a type of fat your body needs but can’t make on its own. That means they have to come from food or supplements.

There are 3 main types you’ll hear about:

  • ALA found in plants like chia seeds and walnuts
  • EPA and DHA mainly found in oily fish like salmon, sardines, or mackerel

These fats help reduce inflammation, keep your heart in check, and support brain function. So yes, they’re important. But that doesn’t mean they always come without side effects.

What’s The Best Way to Get Omega-3s?

Omega 3 rich foods

There are two main ways:

From food:

You can get your omega-3s naturally by eating:

  • Fatty fish like salmon, tuna, and mackerel
  • Chia seeds, flaxseeds, and walnuts
  • Fortified foods like certain eggs or plant-based milks

From supplements:

Fish oil capsules are the most popular, but there are also:

  • Krill oil
  • Algae oil (for vegetarians/vegans)
  • Cod liver oil

Supplements are handy, but it’s also easy to take more than your body actually needs, especially without checking the label or dosage.

Why Does Fish Oil Cause Body Smell for Some people?

Here’s what’s really happening. Some fish oil supplements contain a compound called trimethylamine (TMA). Normally, the liver breaks this down and gets rid of it. But if your body isn’t handling it well, the smell can come through your sweat, breath, or even your urine.

This is what people mean when they talk about body smell. It’s that smell that hangs around even though you’re showering, brushing, and doing all the right things.

And no, it doesn’t mean you’re dirty or doing something wrong. It’s just how some bodies react.

Is This Linked to Any Health Condition?

In rare cases, yes. There’s a condition called trimethylaminuria or fish odour syndrome. People with this condition can’t break down TMA at all, so it builds up and gets released through their body fluids.

But here’s the thing: you don’t have to have this condition to deal with odour. Even people without it can notice the smell if they’re taking high doses, or their supplement isn’t well-processed.

Can Omega-3s Make You Sweat More?

Not really. There’s no strong link between fish oil and how much you sweat. But it might change how your sweat smells, especially if your body’s pushing out those fishy compounds.

Also, because omega-3s are anti-inflammatory, they might actually help reduce sweating in some cases like if sweating is caused by stress or inflammation.

So, the real issue isn’t about sweating more. It’s more about how the sweat smells when fish oil is involved.

What Other Side Effects Should You Know About?

Besides fish oil and sweat smell, there are a few other common side effects:

  • Bad breath (yep, fishy again)
  • Bloating or upset stomach
  • Heartburn
  • Nausea
  • Diarrhea

These don’t happen to everyone, but they’re more likely if you’re taking high doses or if your supplement is low quality.

Why Does It Affect Some People and Not Others?

There are a few reasons:

  • How your body breaks down certain fats
  • Your dosage
  • The quality of the supplement
  • Your diet or gut health
  • Genetics (some people are just more sensitive)

What Are Some Body Odour that Cause By Fish Oil Remedies that Actually Work?

Fish oil in capsules

If you're dealing with this, the good news is you’ve got options. These fish oil body odour remedies are simple but can make a big difference.

Change the supplement

  • Go for enteric-coated capsules. These dissolve further down in your digestive system, which can reduce that fishy aftertaste and smell.
  • Choose supplements that say “odourless” or “refined” on the label.
  • Sometimes, switching brands is all it takes.

Take it with food

  • Having your fish oil with a meal, especially a fatty one can help your body absorb it better and reduce side effects like sweat smell.

Lower the dose

  • If you’re taking a lot, try cutting back a bit. Sometimes a smaller dose still gives you the benefits without the smell.

Try plant-based options

  • Flaxseed oil or algae-based omega-3s can be great alternatives and usually don’t come with the fishy smell.
  • These are perfect if you’re plant-based, or just want to avoid the whole issue.

These remedies are easy to try and might help you keep taking your supplements without stressing about the smell.

When Should You See a Doctor About It?

If you’ve tried all the usual fish oil body odour remedies and still feel like something’s off, it’s worth chatting with your GP or a dietitian.

They can:

  • Help check if you're taking too much
  • Suggest better-quality supplements
  • See if there’s an underlying issue, like trimethylaminuria
  • Recommend other ways to get omega-3s through your diet

Bottom line? Don’t just push through if it’s bothering you. Help is out there.

Is Fish Oil Still Worth Taking If It Causes Body Odour?

It depends. For most people, the benefits of omega-3s like heart support, brain function, and inflammation controlNare still worth it. But if it’s affecting your confidence, daily routine, or relationships, it might not be the right fit right now.

That doesn’t mean omega-3s are off the table forever. With the right approach, you can often keep the benefits and ditch the smell.

So, Should You Stop Taking Fish Oil?

Not necessarily. But it’s important to listen to your body. If something doesn’t feel right, change it. Try a different product, tweak your dose, or switch to a food-based source.

Final Thoughts

Omega-3 supplements can be a fantastic addition to a healthy lifestyle, but like anything else, they may come with a few quirks. Fish oil body odour is one of those things that can catch people off guard, but it doesn’t have to be a deal-breaker.

By choosing better-quality products, adjusting dosage, and trying easy fish oil body odour remedies, it’s possible to enjoy the full benefits of omega-3s without worrying about smell or sweat.