A wide range of supplements contain stimulants or unnatural ingredients to promote weight loss. They often produce unwanted side effects, such as heart failure, insomnia or obsessive compulsive disorder, according to the Transport Roads and Traffic Authority division of New South Wales government. For this reason, natural weight loss supplements gain favor with individuals wishing to lose weight without the side effects. Cod liver oil is one such supplement that may help to promote effective and long-term weight loss. Consult with your medical adviser before engaging in a weight loss program.
Nutritional Information
Cod liver oil is similar to fish oil in that both are rich sources of omega-3 fatty acids. However, cod liver oil is distinguished from fish oil because in addition to the omega-3 fatty acids, it also contains significant amounts of vitamins A and D, according to the USDA Nutrient Data Laboratory. According to the Office of Dietary Supplements Division of National Institutes of Health, vitamin A plays a vital role in vision, bone, cell and reproductive health. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention states that vitamin D helps with the absorption of calcium, a mineral necessary for strong bones. An adequate intake of calcium will not only benefit the bones, but may also prevent fat storage and improve metabolism, according to The University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center in Dallas.
Vitamin D
Sources rich in vitamin D include sunlight and seafood products, such as salmon, mackerel, tuna, sardine and pure cod liver oil. Sufficient amounts of vitamin D have been linked to effective weight loss in numerous studies. According to a study which was published in the March 2011 edition of "Hormone and Metabolic Research," participants with an increased intake of vitamin D exhibited increased production of testosterone. Testosterone is a hormone that encourages muscle tissue synthesis and fat reduction. Furthermore, an August 2008 publication in the "British Journal of Nutrition" supports vitamin D as an effective supplement for weight loss.
Omega-3 Fatty Acids
In addition to supporting a healthy heart, omega-3 fatty acids may also help individuals drop excess weight. The December 2007 edition of the "American Journal of Clinical Nutrition" published a study which discovered that omega-3 fatty acids produced a significant reduction in body fat in 27 type II diabetic women. According to the study, omega-3 fatty acids promoted weight loss without deteriorating insulin sensitivity.
Considerations
Although supplementing a well-balanced diet with cod liver oil may aid efforts in weight loss, consumers should be aware of the potential side effects associated with its use. The University of Maryland Medical Center notes that possible side effects include nausea and allergic reactions, such as hives, itching and difficulties breathing. Consult with your medical practitioner to determine if cod liver oil is the right weight loss supplement for you.
References
- "Hormone and Metabolic Research"; Effect of Vitamin D Supplementation on Testosterone Levels in Men; S. Pilz et al.; March 2011
- "British Journal of Nutrition"; Preliminary Data About The Influence of Vitamin D Status on the Loss of Body Fat in Young Overweight/Obese Women Following Two Types of Hypocaloric Diet; R.M. Ortega et al.; August 2008
- "American Journal of Clinical Nutrition"; Treatment for 2 Mo with N 3 Polyunsaturated Fatty Acids Reduces Adiposity and Some Atherogenic Factors But Does Not Improve Insulin Sensitivity in Women with Type 2 Diabetes: A Randomized Controlled Study; M. Kabir et al.; December 2007
- University of Maryland Medical Center: Cod Liver Oil
- NSW Government: Stimulants
- USDA Nutrient Data Laboratory: Cod Liver Oil
Member Comments