One of the richest sources of Vitamin A and D is cod liver oil. This natural marine product can strengthen the respiratory tract to prevent lung infections, colds, coughs, and discomfort related to the throat and respiratory system.
It is also used by some people with skin problems such as acne or those who need to strengthen their bone strength, such as in the case of osteoporosis. But since taking cod liver oil has these and many other benefits, we will now describe them and explain how it works when ingested.
Contents
Properties of Cod Liver Oil
It is very rich in Omega 3 fatty acids. Just like Norwegian salmon, cod liver provides the body with EPA and DHA acids. These are essential and polyunsaturated fatty acids and are used to maintain a low level of lipids in the blood. It promotes good heart and artery health and is used to treat hyperlipidemia. Both belong to the Omega-3 series and are closely related to alpha-linolenic acid.
Additionally, as it is rich in Vitamin A, it helps in the maintenance of bones, teeth, and the entire skeleton. It also aids in soft tissues like mucous membranes and skin. You’ve probably heard many times how beneficial foods with Vitamin A are and how cod liver oil contains it in addition to retinol. It even produces pigments in the retina, which makes it good for vision.
The Vitamin D from cod helps the human body absorb calcium from other foods you eat. It is also necessary, just like Vitamin A, to maintain good bone health and regenerate small cellular parts daily, preventing osteoporosis, bone decalcification, and generally the weakness of semi-hard tissues. These types of vitamins can be produced by the body with some sun exposure, but during the winter, it is much easier to have low levels. Taking cod liver oil ensures you have the necessary amount and avoids the need for other supplements in addition to sun exposure. Many times, due to our lifestyle, it is almost impossible to get 15 minutes of sunlight three times a week on our skin, and this is when taking a rich omega-3 fish oil comes in handy.
Benefits of Cod Liver Oil
Essential fatty acids are needed to keep the human body and skin youthful and elastic. Their deficiency causes poor functioning of the circulatory system and obstruction of veins. Fewer nutrients reach all tissues, and the synthesis of organic molecules and absorption of trace elements is deficient. So, ensuring a constant supply is very beneficial.
The benefits of cod liver oil are those derived from omega 3, in addition to the properties of Vitamins A and D:
- Protects vision.
- Strengthens the nervous system.
- Prevents psychological disorders such as depression and asthenia.
- Improves development in young children, promoting synaptic connections and proper brain formation.
- Prevents some cases of postpartum depression.
- Promotes the removal of fat from veins and arteries.
- Strengthens the cardiovascular system.
- Balances triglyceride levels.
- It is a good supplement for some cases of arthritis.
- Used to prevent heart and liver diseases.
- Reduces the risk of neurodegenerative diseases such as Alzheimer’s, dementia, etc.
- Provides substances necessary for memory and concentration.
- Increases the number of white blood cells needed to resist colds and flu.
- It is antioxidant and prevents the appearance of breast cancer in women and prostate cancer in men.
When to Take Cod Liver Oil
In the past, it was widely used to treat cases of rickets due to its great benefits for bones, and nowadays, it has broader applications. Cod liver oil is used to:
- Prevent colds and flu by improving the immune system.
- Improve symptoms of acne and oily skin.
- Provide vitamins and fatty acids to people with high physical and mental wear, as well as pregnant women who breastfeed.
- Improve various skin and mucous membrane diseases.
- Regulate excessive menstruation.
- Supplement osteoporosis treatment.
- Improve heart activity and blood system functioning.
- Prevent eye degeneration and problems like cataracts, night blindness, and eye strain.
Side Effects and Contraindications
Pregnant women or those trying to become pregnant should consult a doctor before taking it. Adding vitamin supplements requires supervision during pregnancy.
Additionally, some cases of side effects have been reported, such as:
- Vomiting.
- Diarrhea.
- Loss of appetite.
- Stomach discomfort, acidity, gas.
- Bad breath.
- Burps with fish reflux.
Also, attention should be paid or consultation with a specialist is advised as its effects may interact with medications or conditions in certain individuals. Some contraindications include:
- Anticoagulant medication. It may increase its effectiveness.
- Low blood pressure.
- Continuous use or large amounts may increase LDL or bad cholesterol.
- Vitamin D deficiency. You can buy cod liver oil along with Vitamin E or a product that contains it.
- HIV/AIDS patients should consult as it could decrease the immune system and negatively affect them.
In general, all supplements and products that complement the diet containing vitamins should be taken for a period of time and then rested. Excessive use of vitamins is not good and they should be taken when needed. In this article, we have outlined some cases, though it is always good to consult a specialist to indicate the exact period and provide monitoring over time, to determine whether it should be taken for more or fewer weeks or alternated with other types of oils and omega 3.
Is Fish Oil the Same as Cod Liver Oil?
Cod liver oil is a type of fish oil, but it is important to differentiate the type of fish used as this directly affects its properties. It is also important to consider the parts used. Whether they are viscera and soft parts or if whole portions of the fish are added, including bones and scales. In this sense, cod fish oil is made solely from fresh, freshly extracted livers to maximize the proportion of Omega 3 and vitamins. This avoids degradation and low concentration, which can occur when using other parts as in other fish oils.
Cod liver oil is considered one of the best natural products with Omega 3 fatty acids and vitamins.
