Many people make a sour face at the mention of cod liver oil, perhaps remembering the fishy taste of a childhood dose. Modern preparations feature the addition of lemon juice to mask the odor and flavor and make the supplement a bit easier to swallow. A potent source of beneficial fish oils and vitamins found primarily in animal products, cod liver oil can be a useful dietary supplement -- but it should not be used to treat any medical condition.
Fish Oil
The oil extracted from the liver of the cod is a source of DHA and EPA, the two most important omega-3 fatty acids, according to MedlinePlus. Fish oil supplementation has proved effective at lowering blood triglyceride levels, and is thought to play a role in preventing coronary disease. Research is still underway as of March 2011, but cod liver oil with lemon juice may also help reduce high blood pressure, prevent eye illnesses, encourage weight loss and act as an effective adjunct treatment for many mental disorders including depression, psychosis and ADHD.
Vitamin A
The cod liver oil with lemon juice helps your body absorb vitamin A, a fat-soluble vitamin. Adult men need 900 mcg per day and adult women need 700 mcg per day -- a deficiency can leave you at a higher risk for infectious disease. Since vitamin A plays a key role in the development of retinal pigment, not getting enough can leave you open to developing vision problems. Too much vitamin A can also make you sick, so consult your doctor to find out exactly how much you need.
Vitamin D
The University of Maryland Medical Center says that cod liver oil is the best source of vitamin D. Adults need between 5 and 15 mcg per day, depending upon age, condition and other medications you are taking. A deficiency can increase your risk of osteoporosis, high blood pressure, certain cancers, type 2 diabetes and seasonal affective disorder, but too much can also cause issues. There is no current standard as to what constitutes "too much," so work with your doctor to find the right dose for you.
Alternatives
Cod liver oil may contain the wrong concentrations of cod liver oil and vitamins for some people, and others find that the lemon juice is not enough to mask the taste. You can get the same benefits from your diet, if you structure it right. Eat more fish. Tuna, salmon and trout are especially high in omega-3 fatty acids and are lower in calories than most other protein sources. Fatty fish also contain some vitamin D. Dairy foods are the best sources of vitamins A and D, but many of them are high in saturated fat. Choose skim versions that have been fortified with the vitamins instead.
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