Some people take cod liver oil as a supplement to their normal diet. Like other fish oils, it contains a large amount of omega-3 fatty acids. Cod liver oil also often contains vitamins, though the type and amount depends on the product. If you're taking cod liver oil for a specific condition, consult your doctor to find out whether it is an effective treatment.
Omega-3 Fatty Acids
Your body can't produce omega-3 fatty acids, so you must obtain them in your diet. Typical dietary sources of omega-3 fatty acids include such fish as salmon, halibut and tuna, as well as algae, some plants and nut oils. Omega-3 fatty acids appear to be important for brain development, including cognitive and behavioral function, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center, which points out that the risk of infants experiencing vision and nerve problems increases if mothers don't have an adequate intake of omega-3s during pregnancy.
Vitamins
The specific vitamins cod liver oil contains depends on the type and manufacturer. In general, fish oil supplements often contain vitamin E for spoilage prevention. They also might contain iron; calcium; or vitamins A, B-1, B-2, B-3, C or D, according to MedlinePlus. If you're not sure what ingredients your particular brand of cod liver oil contains, talk to your pharmacist or doctor.
Expert Insight
A 2008 article in "The Medscape Journal of Medicine" reported that cod liver oil contains large amounts of vitamins A and D. The article says vitamin A improves the immune system, bone growth, cellular growth, night vision and ovarian and testicular function. In addition to preventing rickets, vitamin D aids in muscle function and might help prevent Type I diabetes, hypertension and many common cancers, according to the article.
Benefits
MedlinePlus says fish oil supplements are effective for dealing with high triglycerides, which are associated with heart disease and untreated diabetes. Keeping your triglycerides low might help prevent heart disease. MedlinePlus adds that people who already suffer from heart disease might be able to lower their risk of death from the condition. Not all researchers agree on the degree of benefit fish oils offer those with heart disease, but MedlinePlus says some believe that taking the supplement is possibly more effective than the cholesterol-lowering drugs called statins.
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