Cod liver oil has been a popular home remedy for centuries. Mothers of yore forced a daily teaspoon into the mouths of their children for years because the oil of the fatty fish was known to "cure what ails ya." While the true benefits of cod liver oil are understood today and the reasons for using it have become more specific, the fishy flavor of the oil has not changed. This may lead those with a sensitive palate to wonder if the flavorless mineral oil is an acceptable substitute -- it can be, but it depends upon why you're using it.
Constipation
Cod liver oil has been used to cure constipation for years -- in fact, that was one of its original uses. Being an oil, the cod liver oil lubricates the intestines and may help pass hard or dry stools. Mineral oil is an acceptable substitute in this case, because it coats the inside of the intestine to prevent water from being absorbed. The water lubricates and hydrates the stool to make it easier to pass. Be warned, though, that extended use of mineral oil may cause you to lose natural bowel function.
Omega-3 Fatty Acids
The most common reason cod liver oil is used today is as a convenient, potent dose of omega-3 fatty acids. Omega-3s are highly beneficial to heart health and can help reduce high blood triglycerides. They may also help with menstrual pain, high blood pressure, rheumatoid arthritis and a host of other conditions. Cod liver oil varies in omega-3 content, but contains an average of 2.8 g per tablespoon. Mineral oil, however, is nutritionally bankrupt, and contains no beneficial fats whatsoever.
Vitamins
Some brands of cod liver oil are spiked with other vitamins to make an all-in-one nutrient cocktail. Depending upon the brand, it may contain vitamins A, B, C and D, and even a bit of vitamin E to act as a preservative. If you're taking cod liver oil for the vitamin content, mineral oil is not a good substitute. Mineral oil is devoid of any nutrition -- no vitamins, no minerals, and no health benefits.
Other Options
If you're looking for a better-tasting alternative to cod liver oil, mineral oil is not a viable option. Try adding a squirt of lemon to your cod liver oil dose to mask the taste -- some brands have the lemon juice already mixed in. If that doesn't work for you, try a cod liver oil capsule instead. The oil itself is sealed inside a gelatine capsule that you swallow whole, so there is no taste. The capsule dissolves easily in your stomach, allowing the oil to be absorbed into the body. Or you can try eating more fatty fish -- a 7 oz. serving provides the same amount of omega-3s as a serving of cod liver oil.
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