What is COD liver oil?
The liver of the Gadus Morhua fish is used to make cod liver oil. Cod liver oil can be absorbed by the consumption of raw cod liver or through supplementation. It includes reasonably high concentrations of vitamin A and vitamin D and is one of the greatest sources of omega 3 fatty acids (EPA and DHA).
It is one of the most extensively used fish oil supplements, with individuals of all ages taking it for its numerous health advantages.
Some "fatty acids" found in cod liver oil prevent blood from clotting quickly. These fatty acids also help to alleviate inflammation and discomfort. There is no good strong evidence to prove the use of cod liver oil for heart health, depression, arthritis, and a variety of other illnesses.
The oil taken from the livers of Atlantic cod is known as cod liver oil. It is often used as a dietary supplement and is high in nutrients.
A teaspoon of cod liver oil provides approximately 40 calories, 4500 IU vitamin A, 450 IU vitamin D, and 888 mg omega-3 fatty acids. This amounts to almost 90% of the daily intake for vitamin A and 113% of the daily value for vitamin D.
- DHA (docosahexaenoic acid) is an omega-3 fatty acid and essential nutrition for the brain, eyesight, and nervous system. Because of its protective effects on neurological health and brain development, DHA is a very vital fat for newborns and young children, whose brains and bodies are still developing.
- acid (EPA) is an omega-3 fatty acid that works in conjunction with DHA, and the two are frequently mentioned together. Eicosapentaenoic acid helps the heart and is an essential vitamin for reducing inflammation and improving mood.
- Vitamin A is a fat-soluble vitamin that helps your body accomplish numerous critical processes. Supporting eyesight and immune system function and cellular and reproductive health are among its most significant functions. It's also an excellent antioxidant.
- Vitamin D is a fat-soluble vitamin that is important for bone health. Vitamin D insufficiency has been related to bone problems like rickets, but also depression as well as poor heart and metabolic health, autoimmune disease, and even cancer.
Benefits of cod liver oil
Cod liver oil has several health advantages that make it a good supplement for adults and children. Please continue reading to learn more about this miracle oil and how to include it in your daily routine.
1. Bones and joints are strengthened
Vitamin D3 in cod liver oil aids in absorbing dietary calcium and the development of healthy bones. In adults, it can also help prevent rickets in youngsters, osteomalacia (soft bone disease), and osteoporosis (brittle bone disease). Cod liver oil is a good source of nutrients, and it may also have some therapeutic benefits. It is considered to reduce arthritis-related joint stiffness, improve cardiovascular health, and aid in healing damaged teeth, nails, hair, and skin. However, there is no data to support all of these assumptions.
2. Reduces cholesterol levels
A scoop of cod liver oil a day can help decrease bad cholesterol dramatically. It raises the level of good cholesterol (HDL) in your body and lowers bad cholesterol.
3. Diabetes treatment
Cod liver oil has been demonstrated to significantly reduce the risk of type I diabetes in children later in life.
4. Depression Therapy
It can alleviate depression and enhance cognitive performance due to omega-3 fatty acids. People with psychosis, Alzheimer's illness, attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), or bipolar disorders can benefit from using it.
5. Helps with heart health
Omega 3 fatty acids included in cod liver oil have been demonstrated to aid in the reduction of blood pressure, blood stickiness, and irregular cardiac rhythms, particularly when the heart receives inadequate blood flow.
6. Eye Protection
Regular usage of cod liver oil has been shown to be advantageous to the cells and tissues of the eyes. It also protects against macular degeneration caused by aging.
7. Enhances the health of the skin
Fats are necessary for the health of bodily cells. When the appropriate amount of fat is consumed, such as the omega 3 fatty acids found in cod liver oil, the absorption of vitamins and minerals increases, and the skin glows.
8. Assists in the healing of wounds
The anti-inflammatory actions of fatty acids are particularly beneficial. As a result, using this oil or its supplements can speed up the healing of inflammation and lesions.
9. Maintains Kidney Health
Cod liver oil can lower protein levels in the kidneys in persons with type 2 diabetes, which indicates kidney disease severity.
10. Coronary artery disease
Daily use of cod liver oil may assist in avoiding coronary artery disease. Cod liver oil contains fatty acids that function as powerful antioxidants. They also aid in the prevention of blood clots. Inflammation causes plaque to build up in the cardiovascular system. As a result, frequent fish oil consumption can help protect against arteriosclerosis.
COD Liver Oil Uses
Expected Effective for
Triglycerides, or blood fats, are likely to be reduced. In those with high triglyceride levels, taking cod liver oil by mouth can lower triglyceride levels by 20% to 50%.
Possibly Effective for
- High blood pressure may benefit from this treatment. In persons with mild high blood pressure, taking cod liver oil by mouth appears to drop blood pressure (both values) by a modest but significant amount.
- Type 2 diabetes patients with kidney dysfunction. Cod liver oil appears to lower protein in the urine, a sign of the severity of kidney disease.
Cod liver oil's Nutritional Composition
One teaspoon of cod liver oil, weighing 4.5 g, contains, according to the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA),
- Energy: 41 calories
- Vitamin A: 4,500 international units (IU)
- Vitamin D: 450 IU
- Saturated fatty acids: 1.017 g
- Monounsaturated fatty acids: 2.102 g
- Polyunsaturated fatty acids: 1.014 g
- Cholesterol: 26 milligrams (mg)
How much cod liver oil per day?
Cod liver oil is really simple to include in your diet. It comes in various forms, the most popular of which are liquid and capsule. Because there are no specific criteria for cod liver oil consumption, most recommendations are based on acceptable omega-3 fatty acids, vitamin A, and vitamin D intake levels.
A typical dosage is 1–2 teaspoons; however, up to one tablespoon per day is usually considered safe. Higher dosages are not advised since they would result in an overabundance of vitamin A. (52Trusted Source).
Although cod liver oil is incredibly nutritious, certain people should exercise caution when consuming it since it might thin the blood.
Consult your doctor before using cod liver oil if you take any medications.
What is the prescribed intake of cod liver oil?
With a glass of water, take this medicine by mouth. It can be consumed with or without meals. Adults should take 1 teaspoon of cod liver oil daily, while children could take a few drops up to 14 teaspoons daily.
Always consult your doctor before beginning any new supplements, including cod liver oil, and never take more than the manufacturer's advised amount without first consulting your doctor. Take no more than the suggested dose.
What is cod liver oil used for?
The liver of Atlantic cod is used to obtain most cod liver oil. Cod liver oil has been used to reduce joint discomfort and cure rickets, a disorder that causes children's bones to become weak.
Although cod liver oil is a fish oil supplement, it differs from ordinary fish oil in several ways. Regular fish oil comes from the tissue of oily fish like tuna, herring, anchovies, and mackerel, whereas cod liver oil comes from cod livers. The liver is high in fat-soluble vitamins like A and D, giving it a diverse nutritional profile.
The following (4) are provided by one teaspoon (5 ml) of cod liver oil:
- Calories: 40
- Fat: 4.5 grams
- Omega-3 fatty acids: 890 mg
- Monounsaturated fat: 2.1 grams
- Saturated fat: 1 gram
- Polyunsaturated fat: 1 gram
- Vitamin A: 90% of the RDI
- Vitamin D: 113% of the RDI
Cod liver oil is highly nutritious, with a single teaspoon delivering 90% of your daily vitamin A requirements and 113% of your daily vitamin D requirements.
Vitamin A serves various functions in the body, including eye, brain, and skin health. Cod liver oil is also a good source of vitamin D, which helps to keep bones strong by regulating calcium absorption.
Is There a Best Time to Take COD liver oil?
You can take Liver oil at any time of the day suitable for you. This is because most studies indicate that fish oil supplements' potential advantages are related to long-term usage rather than immediate use.
According to studies, taking fish oil for several weeks, months, or even years can boost blood levels of omega-3 fatty acids. Adjusting the time of dosage, on the other hand, can help avoid some of the adverse effects associated with fish oil.
Is it best to take COD liver oil with meals?
Regardless of when you take your cod liver oil supplement, it's important to take it with a meal to ensure absorption in the body. Taking cod with a high supply of fat, in particular, can boost the absorption and efficacy of omega-3 fatty acids. Other typical adverse effects, such as diarrhea, belching, and nausea, might be avoided by taking cod with meals.
Side Effects
- When taken by mouth: Cod liver oil is usually safe for most individuals when taken by mouth. Heartburn, stomach distress, and nausea are all possible adverse effects. High dosages of cod liver oil may be dangerous. They may prevent blood from clotting, increasing the risk of bleeding. With excessive dosages of cod liver oil, vitamin A and vitamin D levels may become too high.
- When directly applied to the skin: When used directly, there isn't enough trustworthy information to say if cod liver oil is safe or what the impacts are.
Side effects (You should report to your doctor or health care provider)
- allergic Skin rash, itching, or hives, swelling of the cheeks, lips, or tongue
- changes in eyesight
- dark urine
- unusual bleeding or welts
- yellowing of the eyes or skin are all adverse responses
Side effects that do not generally require medical treatment (but should be reported to your doctor or healthcare professional if they continue or become difficult):
- headache poor breath dry skin
- stomach pain nasty taste
This list does not include all potential adverse effects. For medical advice on side effects, contact your doctor.
What if you forget to take a dose?
If you miss a dosage, catch up as quickly as possible. Take only that dose if your next dose is approaching. Do not take more than one dosage.
What other medicines could react with this one?
- additional vitamin A or vitamin D
- cholestyramine
- colestipol
- medicines for kidney disease or promoting bone health, like calcitriol or doxercalciferol
- medicines that treat or prevent blood clots like warfarin
- orlistat
This list is not comprehensive and may not include all possible links. Please list all the medications, herbs, non-prescription pharmaceuticals, and nutritional supplements you use and provide it to your doctor.
Also, inform them if you smoke, use alcoholic beverages, or use illegal drugs. Some products may cause your medication to interact.
Warnings and Special Measures
- Pregnancy and breastfeeding: Cod liver oil may be safe during pregnancy and breastfeeding if consumed at levels that do not exceed the recommended daily vitamin A and D requirements. When used in significant amounts, cod liver oil may be dangerous. Pregnant or breastfeeding, avoid taking cod liver oil that contains more than 3000 mcg of vitamin A and 100 mcg of vitamin D.
- Children: When taken by mouth in doses that do not exceed the recommended daily intake of vitamin A and D, cod liver oil is likely safe for most children. When used in significant amounts, cod liver oil may be dangerous.
- Diabetes: Cod liver oil or other fish oils may raise blood sugar levels in diabetics, although it's unclear if this is a significant risk. Cod liver oil may potentially reduce blood sugar levels and enhance the effectiveness of diabetic medications. If you have diabetes and use cod liver oil, watch your blood sugar levels.
- Dosage: Always remember that supplements should be used in conjunction with a healthy and balanced diet and should never be used in place of food. Adults have taken 15-20 mL of cod liver oil by mouth every day for up to four months. Consult a physician to determine the appropriate dose for a particular disease.
Things to Remember
- Choosing the Right Supplement-Supplements are not all made equal. Select a cod liver supplement that meets your body's requirements. In adults, daily vitamin A and vitamin D intakes should not exceed 10000 IU and 5000 IU, respectively.
- Using a liquid or a capsule- The flavor of liquids is fishy. To avoid the bitter taste, cool the capsules before taking them.
- When using cod liver oil for the first time-always see a dietician ensure that the dosage is correct. Before deciding on the daily intake quantity, it is critical to determine the need.
- Allergic reactions: Cod liver oil should be avoided if you are allergic to fish. You may always pick different supplements depending on your need.
Conclusion
Cod liver oil is a highly powerful fish oil supplement that is widely available and high in omega-3 fatty acids, vitamin A, and vitamin D. It may provide a variety of health advantages, including strengthening bones, improving eye health, reducing inflammation, and alleviating rheumatoid arthritis joint discomfort. Supplementing with cod liver oil may offer health advantages.
So go ahead and incorporate this nutritional supplement into your diet to get the numerous health advantages. Stay Happy and Healthy!
Frequently Asked Questions
Q. Does cod liver oil improve skin?
Yes, it benefits; as previously stated, cod liver is high in vitamin A, D, and omega-3 fatty acids. These elements work together to decrease inflammation, protect your skin from free radical damage, and make it seem younger and plumper.
Q. Is cod liver oil good for your hair?
Yes, it is as Cod liver oil can help to strengthen and promote hair growth. Cod liver oil, which is high in omega 3 fatty acids and vitamins A and D, can be beneficial.
Cod liver oil for hair helps strengthen hair, improve hair growth, and reduce hair loss.
Q. How much cod liver oil per day?
250–500 mg of combined EPA and DHA per day — of which fish oil is a good source — is sufficient for most healthy adults.
Q. What is cod liver oil suitable for?
Vitamin A, found in cod liver oil, is essential for immune system function, cellular development, eye health, and reproduction. It's also high in omega-3 fatty acids, which help prevent blood clots and reduce inflammation.