Both cod liver oil and salmon oil contain high levels of the omega-3 fatty acids eicosapentaenoic acid, or EPA, and docosahexaenoic acid, or DHA. Numerous health benefits have been associated with omega-3 fatty acids, including the lowering of cholesterol and triglycerides, as well as the reduction of chronic inflammation. Cod liver oil also contains high levels of vitamin A and vitamin D, whereas salmon oil contains no other vitamins or minerals. Therefore, cod liver oil represents a more nutritious health supplement.
Omega-3 Fatty Acids
The omega-3 fatty acids found in both cod liver oil and salmon oil are involved in numerous health processes, including developing the membranes of brain cells and regulating blood clotting, according to Dr. Frank Saks, professor of cardiovascular disease prevention at the Harvard School of Public Health. Omega-3 fatty acids also protect against heart disease, inflammatory bowel disease and autoimmune diseases such as rheumatoid arthritis.
Vitamin A
Vitamin A plays an integral role in the maintenance of the immune system, vision, bone development and growth, reproduction and the division of cells. Vitamin A also maintains mucus membranes and the linings of the respiratory, intestinal and urinary tracts. Cod liver oil provides vitamin A; salmon oil does not provide vitamin A, or any other vitamins.
Vitamin D
Vitamin D's most important function is to help the body absorb calcium and maintain enough phosphate to keep the bones mineralized. Those who are deficient in vitamin D risk osteomalacia -- the softening of the bones -- as well as osteoporosis. Vitamin D is also involved in the function of the immune system, the regulation of cell growth and immune system health. Cod liver oil provides vitamin D, but salmon oil does not.
Last Word
Cod liver oil provides not only the important omega-3 fatty acids EPA and DHA but also vitamin A and vitamin D. Salmon oil by contrast provides only the omega-3 fatty acids. In terms of supplements, therefore, cod liver oil is the wiser and more economic choice, since it can offer numerous health benefits in one source. Speak to your doctor or health-care practitioner about the difference between cod liver oil and salmon oil, and seek medical clearance before you supplement your diet with either fish oil.
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