Although many supplements claim to help you lose weight, a large proportion of weight loss products contain high levels of stimulants or unnatural ingredients that carry a long list of potential side effects. For this reason, a stimulant-free supplement such as cod liver oil may be beneficial. Cod liver oil may help you lose weight and can also promote general health benefits, so it may be an effective choice for you. Consult a doctor before using any supplements.
Cod Liver Oil
Cod liver oil is sometimes confused with fish oil, but the two supplements are different. Cod liver oil is from the liver of cod, a type of fish. While cod liver oil contains omega-3 fatty acids, as with fish oil, cod liver oil also provides high levels of vitamins A and D, which may make cod liver oil a more beneficial supplement for fat loss.
Vitamin D and Weight Loss
Cod liver oil may help you lose weight due to the high vitamin D content. Vitamin D can be difficult to obtain if you live in an area that does not receive much sunlight, as you absorb vitamin D through sunshine. Research from the March 2011 issue of the journal "Hormone and Metabolic Research" indicates that increasing your vitamin D intake can promote increases in testosterone, a hormone that encourages muscle gain and fat loss. In addition, a study from the August 2008 issue of the "British Journal of Nutrition" found that high levels of vitamin D encouraged improved fat loss when dieting.
Omega-3 Fatty Acids and Weight Loss
Cod liver oil contains omega-3 fatty acids, eicosapentaenoic acid and docosahexaenoic acid. In addition to possibly promoting heart health, omega-3 fatty acids can aid in weight loss. A study published in the December 2007 issue of the "American Journal of Clinical Nutrition" found that supplementation of omega-3 fatty acids helped produce a significant reduction in body fat. Reductions in body fat can help reduce your weight.
Potential Health Risks
Although cod liver oil may be beneficial for weight loss, there are potential side effects associated with its use. These include nausea and allergic reactions that may cause chest tightness, swelling of your hands or face, hives, itching or tingling in your mouth or throat. Consult a doctor immediately if you experience side effects.
References
- Omega 3 Oils: Cod Liver Oil As A Source Of Omega 3 Fatty Acids
- "Hormone and Metabolic Research"; Effect of Vitamin D Supplementation on Testosterone Levels in Men; S. Pilz et al.; March 2011
- "British Journal of Nutrition"; Preliminary Data About The Influence of Vitamin D Status on the Loss of Body Fat in Young Overweight/Obese Women Following Two Types of Hypocaloric Diet; R.M. Ortega et al.; August 2008
- "American Journal of Clinical Nutrition"; Treatment for 2 Mo with N 3 Polyunsaturated Fatty Acids Reduces Adiposity and Some Atherogenic Factors But Does Not Improve Insulin Sensitivity in Women with Type 2 Diabetes: A Randomized Controlled Study; M. Kabir et al.; December 2007
- University of Maryland Medical Center: Cod Liver Oil (By Mouth)
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