Cod is an ocean fish known as the "beef of the sea." Oil can be captured from the liver of this fish and packaged into pills or liquid form for consumption. Cod liver oil has a number of properties that make it potentially beneficial for the body. If you have trouble incorporating a higher intake of fish into your diet, cod liver oil can help.
Omega-3 Fatty Acids
Cod is a form of fatty fish, meaning it has a high volume of oil around its organs. This oil contains omega-3 fatty acids, which are a form of fats considered healthy fats in the body. The two specifically contained in cod liver oil include eicosapentaenoic acid, known as EPA, and deocosahexaenoic acid, known as DHA. These types of fats are known as unsaturated fats. The DHA found in cod liver oil helps to maintain healthy brain and eye functioning. The EPA in fish oil is connected with heart functioning.
Inflammation Fighting
Omega-3 fatty acids help to neutralize free radicals in the body. Free radicals cause inflammation in the body that can contribute to heart disease, premature aging and a number of other conditions. The omega-3 fatty acids are attributed to helping to fight high triglycerides, heart disease and high blood pressure, according to Medline Plus.
Contains Vitamins
Cod liver oils contain a number of vitamins, which circulate in a fish's body. Cod liver oil can be a good source of vitamin D, which can help fight bone-softening diseases like ricketts. Cod liver oil also can be combined with a number of vitamins and minerals in production, including vitamin E, which helps to keep the oil from spoiling. Calcium, iron, vitamin A and many B vitamins also may be included in cod liver oil. If you are considering taking cod liver oil, you may wish to speak to your physician to ensure the vitamin contents in cod liver oil won't interfere with any medical conditions or medications you may be taking.
Drug Interactions
Cod liver oil's anti-inflammatory properties can increase the effects of some drugs, which can be harmful to your body. Talk to your doctor if you are taking medications like birth control, high blood pressure or weight-loss medications as these have been known to interact with cod liver oil.
References
- MedlinePlus; Fish Oil; February 2011
- Drugs.com; Cod Liver Oil; 2011
- University of California at Berkeley Wellness Letter; Cod Liver Oil; 2011
- "Liberty County Times"; How Much Vitamin D Is Necessary for Good Health?; Dr. Richard Buker; May 2011
- "The New York Times"; Cod Is Good; Molly O'Neill; October 1997
- Dr. Ronald Hoffman; What Are EPA/DHA; Dr. Ronald Hoffman
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