Extracted from the livers of cod fish, cold pressed cod liver oil contains high amounts of fatty acids essential for proper body functioning that the human body cannot produce them itself, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center. Cod liver oil contains high levels of omega-3 fatty acids, also known as polyunsaturated fatty acids, or PUFAs, which are found in many kinds of fish. Two types of PUFAs specifically are found in fish---docosahexaenoic acid, or DHA, and eicosapentaenoic acid, or EPA, which may have different benefits.
Anti-inflammatory Effects
Rheumatoid arthritis is an autoimmune disease that causes inflammation of the joints. Several small research studies have suggested that fish oil supplements can help reduce this inflammation, according to the Mayo Clinic, particularly when combined with anti-inflammatory medications. These effects have been observed for up to three months, and further research is needed for longer treatment periods.
EPA omega-3 fatty acids have specifically been evaluated for the treatment of eczema, notes the Mayo Clinic, but research studies thus far have been small and results have been inconclusive.
Inflammatory bowel disease, such as Crohn's, may benefit from omega-3 supplementation, but further research is needed to clarify the effects.
Cardiovascular Benefits
Fish oil supplements may decrease triglyceride levels in the blood, a harmful form of fats, according to the Mayo Clinic. People who live in cultures eating diets rich in omega-3s, such as Mediterranean cultures and Eskimos, generally have higher-than-average levels of high-density lipoprotein, or HDL cholesterol, considered the "good" cholesterol, and lower levels of low-density lipoprotein cholesterol, or LDL, considered harmful.
Diets high in omega-3 fatty acids or the use of fish oil supplements may decrease blood pressure in individuals with untreated hypertension, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center.
Psychological Benefits
A recent meta-analysis, which combined several research studies, determined that omega-3 fatty acids may prove useful for patients with depression and bipolar disorder as a supplement to their standard care, according to the National Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine. The researchers emphasized that omega-3 supplements should not replace regular treatment for these conditions, but could be considered as an addition.
These same researchers did not find conclusive evidence about whether omega-3 supplements are useful for other disorders such as schizophrenia and dementia, due to lack of evidence.
Children with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, or ADHD, may have low levels of some essential fatty acids, including EPA and DHA. According to the University of Maryland, research is ongoing as to whether supplementation with omega-3 supplements such as cod liver oil pills could improve behavioral symptoms.
Other Benefits
Omega-3 supplementation, such as that found in cold pressed cod liver oil, may result in other health benefits such as prevention of macular degeneration and treatment of dry eye, decreased risk of colon and breast cancer, and increase of calcium in the bones to prevent osteoporosis, according to the University of Maryland.
Member Comments