The ingredients in cod liver oil that produce positive health outcomes in most people can produce adverse side effects in some. The active ingredients in cod liver oil include two essential fatty acids, ecosapentaenoic acid and docosahexaenoic acid, more commonly known as EPA and DHA. These two omega-3 fatty acids cause changes in cardiovascular functioning and particularly in blood clotting that produce the generally positive effect of increased blood flow. For those who have thin blood or problems with clotting, these usually positive effects can cause excessive bleeding, swelling or easy bruising. Always consult with your physician before taking cod liver oil or other supplements.
Cardiovascular Benefits
The EPA and DHA contained in cod liver oil provide numerous health benefits that affect blood flow. Cod liver oil lowers triglyceride levels and lowers cholesterol. It also functions as an antioxidant, which prevents the damaging effects of free radicals. Free radicals are unstable oxygen molecules that steal electrons from cell membranes, mitochondria and other tissues, including cholesterol. Also, cod liver oil reduces inflammatory responses, which helps reduce responses that ultimately decrease blood flow.
How It Works
Cholesterol builds up in your arteries, veins and capillaries, reducing blood flow. Free radicals cause damage to the fatty buildup, and various other substances, such as calcium, cellular waste products, inflammatory cells and proteins, start to stick to the buildup. The fat and other substances turn into plaque, which over time can develop hard, fibrous coverings. When the coverings break or crack, the soft, fatty tissue below becomes exposed, triggering formation of blood clots, which can cause further blockage and reduce blood flow. By lowering cholesterol, decreasing inflammatory responses and disabling free radicals, cod liver oil increases the flow of blood through your arteries, veins and capillaries, enhancing the delivery of oxygen and other nutrients to your cells and tissues.
Blood Thinning
EPA and DHA enhance production of hormone-like substances in your bloodstream called prostaglandins. One type of prostaglandin that EPA and DHA promotes -- series 3 prostaglandins -- decreases clotting and inflammation in your bloodstream. The result is thinner blood. As with the other vascular effects of EPA and DHA, having thinner blood increases how efficiently your bloodstream delivers nutrients and removes waste and toxins. And as with the other effects of EPA and DHA, cod liver oil enhances your overall health and reduces your risk of stroke, heart attack and cardiovascular disease.
Downside for Some
If you take blood thinners, such as clopidogrel, aspirin or warfarin, or if you already have thin blood, some of these effects can contribute to heavy bleeding during menstruation or when you get cut, develop lesions or suffer a wound. Other side effects of overly thinned blood can include nosebleeds, hemorrhagic diathesis, blood in stools, swelling, headaches and dizziness. Speak with your doctor if you develop these side effects of fish oil.
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