Nutritional Value Of Cod Fish Oil

For many years, cod oil has been used as a natural remedy to treat a variety of ailments. Today, research shows that cod liver oil may be beneficial for treating individuals with a vitamin D deficiency and rheumatoid arthritis. Cod liver oil supplements are available in an oil extract or soft gel capsule form. Consult with a health care provider first before treating yourself with any dietary supplement.

Identification

Cod fish are abundant in the cold and deep waters of North America, Norway and Greenland. World's Healthiest Foods reports that the Gadus morhua, or the North Atlantic cod fish, is the most consumed type of cod. Cod fish oil supplements are extracted then purified from the liver of the cod, according to UC Berkeley Wellness Guide.

Nutrition

Cod liver oil is an excellent source of omega-3 fatty acids. The U.S. Department of Agriculture National Nutrient Database notes that cod liver oil contains the omega-3 essential fatty acids docosahexaenoic acid and eicosapentaenoic acid. Traces of oleic acid, a monounsaturated fatty acid, are also found in cod liver oil. In addition to fatty acids, cod liver oil also contains good amounts of vitamins D and A. The USDA National Nutrient Database reports that 1 tbsp. of cod liver oil provides over 4,000 mcg of vitamin A and 1,360 IU of vitamin D. Also, 1 tbsp. of cod liver oil provides 13 g of total fat, 78 mg of dietary cholesterol and 123 total calories, according to the USDA National Nutrient Database.

Benefits

The UC Berkeley Wellness Guide reports that individuals use cod liver oil to treat cancer, Alzheimer's disease and depression; however, there is inconclusive evidence supporting those benefits. A 2007 study published in the journal "Rheumatology" reported some positive benefits of cod liver oil in treating rheumatoid arthritis. The study researchers concluded that omega-3 fatty acids found in cod liver oil possess anti-inflammatory properties that can relieve symptoms of rheumatoid arthritis. Another study published in the "Journal of the American Board of Family Practice" found that cod liver oil is also beneficial for individuals suffering from hypovitaminosis D because of its vitamin D content. The authors of this study also reported that cod liver oil supplements may be beneficial for individuals at risk for vitamin D deficiency.

Recommendations

Medical doctors Mary G. Enig and Sally Fallon Morell of the Weston A. Price Foundation recommend several doses of cod liver oil supplements for individuals. Children under 12 years old may consume 1 tbsp. of cod liver oil daily that contains no more than 5,000 IU of vitamin A, recommends Drs. Enig and Fallon Morell. Adults and pregnant women can consume 2 to 4 tsp. of cod oil liver daily.

Warnings

One of the main concerns with cod liver oil supplements is the oil's high levels of vitamin A. The UC Berkeley Wellness Guide reports that cod liver oil supplements may increase the risk for weak bones or birth defects due to the elevated levels of vitamin A. Therefore, it is important that pregnant woman and children monitor their dosage of cod liver oil and vitamin A supplements to prevent toxicity. Also, cod liver oil may contain certain contaminants that may be harmful to health, according to UC Berkeley Wellness Guide. Look for cod liver oil supplements that are purified and produced from a quality brand. With all supplements, it is important to check with your doctor first to avoid any interactions.