Cod liver oil is nutrient-dense oil extracted from the livers of codfish. Most of the cod liver oil sold in North America is imported from Norway. The oil is a concentrated source of the healthy omega-3 fatty acids EPA and DHA. Cod liver oil is also high in fat soluble vitamins A and D. The regular intake of cod liver oil may help prevent and alleviate diseases in adults and children. Always consult your physician before using any alternative remedy to treat a serious health condition.
Osteoarthritis Relief
BBC News reports a study that says cod liver oil is good for your joints and may delay the need for knee replacement surgery in patients with osteoarthritis. Cod liver oil may decrease inflammation and reduce the knee pain in arthritic patients. The omega-3 fatty acids in cod liver oil work, in part, by shutting off the enzymes responsible for the destruction of the cartilage in the knee joint, thus halting the progression of this disease.
Immune and Cardiovascular Support
Cod liver oil contains vitamins D and A, which regulate your immune system, protecting your body from autoimmune diseases, cancers and upper respiratory tract infections. Cod liver oil can also be part of a regimen to prevent heart disease, and it may also encourage healing after a heart attack. Taken on a regular basis, the omega-3 fatty acids and the vitamins in cod liver oil improve the elasticity of the cells lining the arteries of the heart, facilitating healing after a heart attack and reducing inflammation in the blood vessels feeding the heart muscle.
Child Development
DHA is an essential fatty acid for the preservation of your nervous system, and is also essential for the development of the brains and eyes of fetuses. Vitamin A plays a part in the development of healthy lungs and eyes. Pregnant women who take cod liver oil decrease the incidence of type 1 diabetes in their children. Children who take cod liver oil supplements have a low incidence of rickets, a disease affecting the proper development of the bones. However, if you are a woman of child-bearing age planning to become pregnant, discuss cod liver oil supplementation with your health care provider, as too much may cause birth defects.
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