Discover the benefits of cod liver oil, rich in vitamins A and D, for bone health, immune support, and reducing inflammation; plus, its role during pregnancy and the difference between it and regular fish oil.
So, you’ve probably heard whispers about cod liver oil, right? Maybe your grandma used to swear by it, or maybe you just saw it mentioned in a health article, um, somewhere. We’ve definitely noticed it popping up more and more. So, what’s the deal with this stuff, anyway? We’re gonna unpack all the goodness (and maybe some of the not-so-goodness) of cod liver oil.
We’ll take a closer look at the unique benefits of cod liver oil and its nutritional value below:
- Benefits of Cod Liver Oil
- 1. Protection Against Rickets
- 2. Reducing the Risk of Diabetes
- 3. Fighting Inflammation
- 4. Protection Against Age-Related Macular Degeneration
- 5. Protection Against Heart Disease
- 6. Improving Bone Strength
- 7. Improving Brain Function
- 8. Important for Pregnant Women
- Contraindications for Taking Cod Liver Oil
- The Difference Between Cod Liver Oil and Regular Fish Oil
Benefits of Cod Liver Oil
It seems like there’s, like, a million and one supposed benefits of cod liver oil, and we’ve tried to round up what the studies say below.
1. Protection Against Rickets
Thanks to it being super rich in vitamin D, cod liver oil plays a vital role in regulating the growth of bones and the absorption in between.
An important study found that vitamin D protects against rickets, which leads to deformities and reduces bone density, as well as reducing the chances of it worsening and preventing its complications.
Makes you wonder, doesn’t it: are you getting enough vitamin D? Here’s how to treat and get it.
2. Reducing the Risk of Diabetes
It has been proven that there is a strong link between vitamin D in the body and the risk of developing diabetes of both type II and type I. A study found that people who received 2,000 IU daily of vitamin D reduced their risk of developing type 1 diabetes before the age of 32 by 88%.
In addition, cod liver oil helps improve sensitivity to sugar in the blood and insulin resistance.
3. Fighting Inflammation
One of the benefits of cod liver oil is its ability to reduce the pain of joint inflammation and relieve inflammation.
Another study found that cod liver oil helps reduce chemicals which aren’t steroidal that are responsible for the inflammation that arthritis patients need.
Cod liver oil can help people with arthritis to reduce pain and discomfort in the joints resulting from arthritis, and thus reduce the need for anti-inflammatories.
4. Protection Against Age-Related Macular Degeneration
Omega-3 is known to help improve eye health and prevent age-related macular degeneration, which is because of the carotenoids, which can reduce damage and reduce the risk of developing macular degeneration.
5. Protection Against Heart Disease
A study has proven the effectiveness of omega-3 acids found in cod liver oil in protecting against the risks of developing arteries and their complications.
6. Improving Bone Strength
The benefits of cod liver oil include improving bone strength in the body and reducing the effects resulting from bone fractures and reducing the negative impact on bone fractures, reducing pain resulting from bone fractures.
7. Improving Brain Function
A study found a link between taking supplements that contain cod liver oil as an adjuvant treatment for students and reducing the occurrence of symptoms of students, thanks to taking larger amounts of omega-3 and vitamin D.
8. Important for Pregnant Women
Vitamin D levels in a pregnant woman’s body are linked, as studies suggest, to an increased risk of developing the following diseases:
- Gestational diabetes.
- Autoimmune inflammation.
- Pregnancy poisoning.
So taking cod liver oil is vital as it is important in protecting against all of these.
Contraindications for Taking Cod Liver Oil
After learning about the benefits of cod liver oil, which is usually safe if taken within the safe doses of vitamin D and vitamin A, here are some precautions to take when taking cod liver oil in the following cases:
- Taking high amounts of vitamin D and vitamin A may have negative effects on the body, so it is recommended to take the specific daily dose of it from different sources.
- Care should be taken before people with diabetes take it, in order to avoid high or low blood sugar levels.
- Care should be taken before people with reduced blood clotting take cod liver oil to prevent easy and excessive bleeding.
The Difference Between Cod Liver Oil and Regular Fish Oil
Cod liver oil is taken in the form of a nutritional supplement that resembles regular fish oil, but the difference is its source.
It comes from the liver of cod fish only, unlike other fish oils that are extracted from other oily fish such as salmon, tuna, mackerel, and herring.
Cod liver oil contains lower amounts of fatty acids and omega-3s compared to regular fish oils, but what sets it apart is its high amounts of vitamins A and D.
Related reading: Facts about fish oil omega 3!
Key takeaways
- Cod liver oil is rich in Vitamin D and Vitamin A, which are crucial for bone health and immune function.
- It may help reduce inflammation and alleviate symptoms of arthritis.
- Cod liver oil is beneficial during pregnancy due to its Vitamin D content, which supports healthy fetal development.
FAQ, Myth & Facts
Is cod liver oil just for old people?
Nope! While it’s true our grandmas might’ve been big fans, the benefits of cod liver oil can be enjoyed by people of all ages. From supporting bone health in kids to fighting inflammation in adults, it’s got something for everyone. Well almost, check with your doctor before you start!
Does cod liver oil taste awful?
Okay, this is a valid concern. The taste of cod liver oil has historically been, um, not great. But, the good news is that many brands now offer flavored versions or capsules to make it easier to swallow (literally!).
Can I get enough Vitamin D from cod liver oil alone?
Cod liver oil is a good source of Vitamin D, but it might not be enough to meet everyone’s needs, especially if you live in an area with limited sunlight. It’s always a good idea to chat with your doctor to figure out the right amount for you.
Is cod liver oil the same as regular fish oil?
Not exactly! Both are great sources of omega-3 fatty acids, but cod liver oil also contains Vitamin A and D, which are crucial for many body functions.
Can I take too much cod liver oil?
Yes, you can overdo it. Since cod liver oil contains Vitamin A and D, taking too much can lead to toxicity. Always follow the recommended dosage on the label and consult with a healthcare professional if you’re unsure.
Testimonials
A lady shared, “I started taking cod liver oil a few months ago, and I’ve noticed a significant improvement in my joint pain. I used to struggle with stiffness every morning, but now I feel much more flexible and comfortable. It’s made a real difference in my daily life.”
A parent mentioned, “My daughter was constantly getting sick, especially during the winter months. Since she started taking cod liver oil, her immune system seems much stronger. She’s had fewer colds, and when she does get sick, she recovers much faster. I’m so glad we added it to her routine.”
Another person said, “I’ve always struggled with dry eyes, especially when I spend long hours working at my computer. A friend recommended cod liver oil, and it’s been a game-changer. My eyes feel more lubricated, and I don’t experience the same level of discomfort anymore. It’s been a simple, yet effective solution.”
So, there you have it – a pretty comprehensive look at the world of cod liver oil. Personally, I’m thinking of adding it to my routine, especially with winter coming up. Maybe it’ll finally give me that extra boost I need to dodge those pesky colds!
