Cod liver oil is a popular nutritional supplement. It usually is taken orally, and it typically comes in liquid or capsule forms. The high-vitamin oil is derived from the liver of a cod fish, and it has several valuable nutritional properties. There are many cod liver oil benefits, and the most common ones include the prevention or treatment of arthritis, heart disease and high cholesterol. Many pregnant women take this supplement because it is believed to benefit the fetus’ brain and nervous system as well as to ease mood swings in the mother.
The main ingredients that promote cod liver oil benefits are vitamin A, vitamin D, omega-3 fatty acids, docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) and eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA). Vitamin A works to maintain healthy immune systems, to promote healthy skin and eyesight and to resist bacterial and viral infections. Vitamin D helps to build and maintain strong and healthy teeth and bones. These features, combined with the other cod liver oil benefits, make it a popular prenatal supplement for expectant mothers. The oil helps a developing fetus grow and replenishes essential nutrients for the mother.
Vitamins A and D work to provide cod liver oil benefits in other ways as well. They facilitate mineral absorption, support blood vessel elasticity and can improve muscle function. Both of these vitamins might help people who have muscle or bone pain, such as arthritis sufferers. Vitamin A typically is required to heal skin and digestive disorders. Vitamin D helps regulate blood sugar levels and can help prevent high blood pressure.
Omega-3 fatty acids have many beneficial features, such as anti-inflammatory properties and relief for stress, asthma and allergies. They also help to reduce the amount of bad cholesterol in the body and to improve the artery linings after heart damage. EPA helps to reduce inflammation throughout the body, and DHA assists with eyesight, the skin and functions of the nervous system.
Users should follow the daily recommendations to receive all of the cod liver oil benefits. Some doctors recommend taking one or two teaspoons (5 or 10 ml) of cod liver oil each day. Others believe that the health risks outweigh the other cod liver oil benefits. For example, cod liver oil might be beneficial when taken in moderation, but there might be severe adverse reactions when large doses are taken. Taking too much cod liver oil can lead to high blood pressure or other health issues.