Cod liver is a source of omega 3 fatty acids in the form of EPA and DHA. However, typical cod liver oil composition is only EPA 12%, DHA 9%, quantities which are less concentrated than in oil taken from the whole fish.
Although Cod liver oil is a significant source of the fat soluble vitamins A and D, achieving therapeutic doses of EPA and DHA may result in undesirably high levels of vitamin A and D intake. A fish oil concentrate may therefore be a better choice. It
is a type of fish oil that is extracted from the liver of codfish. It is a good source of omega-3 fatty acids, vitamin A, and vitamin D.
Cod liver oil is often taken as a supplement to improve overall health and well-being. It has been shown to have a number of benefits, including:
Benefits of cod liver oil
Cod liver oil is a nutrient-rich supplement that offers a variety of health benefits. Some of the most well-known benefits of cod liver oil include:
- Reduces inflammation: contains omega-3 fatty acids, which have anti-inflammatory properties. Inflammation is linked to a number of chronic diseases, such as heart disease, arthritis, and cancer. Cod liver oil can help to reduce inflammation and protect against these diseases.
- Boosts the immune system: contains vitamin A and vitamin D, which are both important for immune function. Vitamin A helps to produce white blood cells, which fight infection. Vitamin D helps to regulate the immune system and keep it healthy.
- Improves heart health: contains omega-3 fatty acids, which have been shown to improve heart health by lowering cholesterol levels, reducing blood pressure, and preventing blood clots.
- Promotes brain health: contains omega-3 fatty acids, which are essential for brain health. Omega-3 fatty acids help to improve cognitive function, memory, and mood. They may also protect against age-related neurodegenerative diseases, such as Alzheimer’s disease and Parkinson’s disease.
- Reduces the risk of osteoporosis: contains vitamin D, which is essential for bone health. Vitamin D helps the body to absorb calcium, which is necessary for strong bones. Cod liver oil can help to reduce the risk of osteoporosis, a condition that causes bones to become weak and brittle.
What it does
- Growth and Development: Cod liver oil contains vitamin A, a fat soluble nutrient that influences growth and development. Deficiencies of vitamin A are especially apparent in the lining of the cornea of the eyes, respiratory tract, intestinal tract, skin, urinary tract and the ducts of secretory glands.
- Skin Health: Vitamin A supplementation from cod liver oil has been shown in research to benefit various skin disorders such as acne, dermatitis and psoriasis.
- Eye Health:
Vitamin A is needed by the rods and cones in the eye’s retina, responsible for night and daytime vision respectively. - Bone Health:
Cod liver oil contains vitamin D, an important nutrient that facilitates the absorption of calcium from the gut. - Cardiovascular Health: EPA from fish oils have an antithrombotic effect, lipid (triglyceride) lowering, reduced blood and plasma viscosity, and improvements in endothelial dysfunction. Omega 3 fatty acids have been shown to inhibit the activity of a chemical called thromboxane which causes platelets to stick together.
- Cholesterol:
Fish oils appear to reduce triglycerides in addition to improving the ratio of HDL and LDL cholesterol. - Hypertension: Omega 3 fatty acids are increased, especially when taken in the form of fish oils have a blood pressure lowering effect.
- Inflammatory Conditions:
Omega 3 fatty acids suppress the production of inflammatory compounds produced by white blood cells.
Potential Uses
| Osteo arthritis | Cardiovascular disease | Eye Health |
| High blood pressure | Cholesterol |
Is it OK to take cod liver oil everyday?
Yes, it is generally safe to take it every day. However, it is important to talk to your doctor before starting any new supplement, especially if you have any underlying health conditions or are taking any medications.
The recommended dosage varies depending on your age and health needs. For adults, a typical dosage is 1-2 teaspoons per day. You can take iton an empty stomach or with food.
Who shouldn’t take cod liver oil?
It is generally safe for most people. However, there are a few groups of people who should avoid taking this supplement, including:
- People with allergies to fish or shellfish
- People with bleeding disorders
- People taking blood thinners
- Pregnant women and breastfeeding women (unless directed by a doctor)
Is cod liver oil the same as omega-3?
No, cod liver oil is not the same as omega-3. It is a type of fish oil that contains omega-3 fatty acids, as well as vitamin A and vitamin D. Omega-3 fatty acids are a type of polyunsaturated fat that is essential for human health. They can be found in a variety of foods, including fish, nuts, and seeds.
Omega-3 fatty acids are available as supplements, but they can also be obtained from food. If you choose to take an omega-3 supplement, be sure to choose one that is made from a high-quality source and that contains both DHA and EPA.
Cautions
Due to its very high levels of vitamin A and vitamin D. cod liver oil should not be taken by women who are or who could become pregnant before consulting a doctor.
Other adults should consult their doctor before taking (or other supplements) containing more than 25,OOOIU (7,500 meg) of vitamin A per day or 800 IU of vitamin D per day.
Do not use with warfarin or anti-coagulant medications with it.
