Cod liver oil is rich in omega-3 fatty acids. Daily treatment with cod liver oil may help reduce inflammation and pain and may improve the health of your heart. These health benefits of cod liver oil may be particularly helpful for people with a family or personal history or heart disease or arthritis. Before taking this fish oil supplement, discuss the safety of cod liver oil with your primary medical provider.
Vitamins A and D Overdose
Prolonged treatment with cod liver oil may result in an overdose of vitamins A and D. One teaspoon of cod liver oil contains 4,500 IU of vitamin A -- nearly twice the recommended intake of this vitamin for women, according to the Office of Dietary Supplements. This fish oil supplement is also rich in vitamin D and daily treatment with cod liver oil may increase your blood levels of this nutrient. High vitamin A levels, a condition called hypervitaminosis A, may cause upset stomach, hair loss, increased sunlight sensitivity, itchy skin, headache, irritability, dizziness, blurred vision, diminished appetite and liver damage. Similarly, vitamin D toxicity caused by cod liver oil treatment may lead to nausea, vomiting, constipation, confusion, weakness, kidney stones or heart rate changes.
Additional Side Effects
While taking cod liver oil, you may experience mild side effects such as heartburn, nausea or excessive belching. Your breath may also emit a strong, fish-like odor that you may find embarrassing or bothersome. Certain people experience recurrent nosebleeds during cod liver oil treatment. If any of these side effects emerge, consult your medical provider for further evaluation and care.
Interactions with Other Drugs
Discuss any medication or supplement you are taking with your physician before beginning to take cod liver oil. Avoid taking this fish oil supplement in conjunction with anticoagulant or high blood pressure medications. Combining these treatments may enhance the effects of these prescription medications.
Contraindications
Cod liver oil treatment may not be appropriate for you if you have certain health problems or concerns. Do not take cod liver oil if you are allergic or sensitive to aspirin. Improper use of cod liver oil by aspirin-sensitive people may cause breathing complications, including shortness of breath or wheezing. Additionally, avoid treatment with cod liver oil if you are breast-feeding or pregnant. The safety of cod liver oil during pregnancy has yet to be fully evaluated.
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