Cod Liver Oil was around when I was a kid, and long before that. However, I don’t think I ever knew what it was or why it was being given to me. So, what is Cod Liver Oil?
Webster’s Dictionary says it is “an oil obtained from the liver of the cod and closely related fishes, and is used as a source of Vitamins A and D.” I assumed by the name that it was probably from the liver of the Cod fish, and now we know it is a good source of 2 important vitamins. That brings up the question of what else is it good for?
I don’t have a set of the Encyclopedia Britannica anymore, so I had to google Wikipedia. The following is what I found.
- Cod Liver Oil is considered an Omega-3 fatty acid, which we know is linked to many health benefits, to include reducing inflammation and lower blood pressure.
- The Vitamin A in it is good for healthy eyes, brain function and skin.
- The Vitamin D is 113% of the daily requirement for Vitamin D which has the important role of maintaining healthy bones by regulating calcium absorption.
- It may reduce joint pain and improve Rheumatoid Arthritis symptoms which are both inflammation issues.
- It may support and protect against the diseases of glaucoma and age related macular degeneration. Both are considered inflammatory conditions of the eyes.
- It has been found to Reduce Heart Disease risk by reducing triglycerides, lowering blood pressure, increasing HDL cholesterol and preventing plaque formation in the arteries.
- It may improve anxiety and depression – more studies need to be done on this as the scientists are not clear on how it does this.
- It may help heal stomach and gut ulcers which are small breaks in the lining of these areas. A lot of animal studies have been done, but scientists are still working on Human studies.
How do you add it to your diet? In my day it was taken in liquid form. Today, it can be taken in liquid form or in capsule form. In liquid form 1 -2 teaspoons per day is safe. You don’t want to overdo because of the Vitamin A content, which when you take too much of can become toxic and also “cause liver damage.” (told to me by a heart specialist).
COD LIVER OIL is a very nutritious type of fish oil supplement, when taken according to directions and not overdone.
God Bless!
FYI-HEALTH TALK 