Eating fish two to three times per week gives you a healthy dose of omega-3 fatty acids, substances that are inflammation fighters in the body. However, it may be difficult to obtain enough fish in your weekly diet to reap the benefits. In this instance, you may wish to take a fish oil supplement, which can help to increase the amount of fish oil in your diet. Two options are halibut and cod liver oils, which have some differences from traditional fish oils.
Significance
Halibut and cod are two common forms of fish. Cod is commonly found in New England and also is known as the "beef of the sea," according to "The New York Times." Halibut is a fish found in both the Pacific and Atlantic Oceans. The livers from these two fish types are removed, centrifuged to eliminate toxins and packaged in either liquid or capsule form for you to obtain recommended omega-3 fatty acids.
Uses
Halibut and cod liver oils are used to treat a variety of conditions. MedlinePlus rates fish oil supplements as "Effective" for treating high triglycerides. The supplements also have been determined "Likely Effective" for treating heart disease. While researchers have not established a definitive connection for treating other conditions, your physician may recommend taking fish oil supplements for conditions like high blood pressure, rheumatoid arthritis, menstrual pain, stroke, osteoporosis, kidney problems and bipolar disorder. Talk to your physician about the appropriate dosage for each condition and how this may affect medications you are currently taking.
Difference From Fish Oils
Fish liver oils like halibut and cod liver oils are different from traditional fish oils. This is because oils in the liver also contain vitamin A because the liver filters this vitamin. This means you must use caution if you are pregnant because excess vitamin A is associated with harmful side effects, including increased risk for miscarriage. For this reason, it is important to carefully monitor the dosage of halibut and/or cod liver oil you take to ensure you are not exceed the recommended daily dosage of vitamin A. It also is possible to purchase fish oil capsules that have had the vitamin A content reduced.
Contamination Concerns
Due to pollutants that have built up over time in the seas and fresh water, many fish contain some element of mercury, a harmful substance that can be deadly if ingested in certain amounts. While manufacturers take steps to reduce contaminants in fish oils, there is greater concern over the purity of fish liver oils. This is because fish oil livers are responsible for filtering toxins, including contaminants like mercury and PCBs, another harmful toxin found in fish, according to the University of California at Berkeley. Look for supplements whose labels explain their decontamination process and stick to recommended serving sizes.
Member Comments