The main purpose of taking cod liver daily remains the multiple nutritional benefits that this one supplement provides. Cod liver oil is a multi-use supplement that contains high levels of omega-3 fatty acids, vitamin A and vitamin D. Research has also demonstrated that cod liver oil may have anti-carcinogenic properties and applications. Speak to your doctor or health-care provider about the practical value of cod liver oil from a nutritional standpoint.
Omega-3 Fatty Acids
Cod liver oil offers a significant source of the omega-3 fatty acids eicosapentaenoic acid, better known as EPA, and docosahexaenoic acid, or DHA. The purpose of taking cod liver oil is that these healthy fats have been associated with numerous protective health effects, according to Dr. Frank Saks of the Harvard School of Public Health. These include defense against chronic inflammatory diseases such as inflammatory bowel disease, lupus and rheumatoid arthritis. Saks also asserts that the omega-3 fatty acids in cod liver oil may offer protection against heart disease and stroke.
Vitamin D
Another purpose of taking cod liver oil is the protection it may offer against developing type 1 and type 2 diabetes. According to Dr. Merav Baz-Hecht of the Joslin Diabetes Center at the Harvard Medical School research shows that vitamin D has a positive effect on the immune system. Research also supports a correlation between vitamin D deficiency and the onset of diabetes, as well as cardiovascular disease and high blood pressure.
Vitamin A
Cod liver oil contains high levels of vitamin A. The purpose of taking cod liver oil is to ensure that you get enough vitamin A -- this vitamin supports a number of systems in the body, including the reproductive system and the immune system. Vitamin A regulates important functions such as cell division and bone growth and also helps keep the skin healthy. Vitamin A is also a vital component of vision, according to the National Institutes of Health Office of Dietary Supplements.
Cancer
Another purpose of taking cod liver oil daily is that it may help prevent cancer, as well as increase your likelihood of surviving cancer. According to a 2009 study conducted by Norwegian researchers and published in the "International Journal of Cancer," daily supplementation of cod liver oil correlated with a higher survival rate among lung cancer patients and cancer patients with solid tumors.
References
- Harvard School of Public Health; Omega-3 Fatty Acids; Dr. Frank Saks
- "Current Opinion in Endocrinology, Diabetes and Obesity"; The Impact of Vitamin D Deficiency on Diabetes and Cardiovascular Risk; M. Baz-Hecht et al.; April 2010
- National Institutes of Health Office of Dietary Supplements; Vitamin A; April 2006
- "International Journal of Cancer"; Cod Liver Oil, Other Dietary Supplements and Survival Among Cancer Patients with Solid Tumours; G. Skeie et al.; September 2009
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