Healthy skin tissue proves integral to maintaining your health. Well-nourished skin can heal normally, and maintains a strong barrier between your internal organs and the environment. Taking cod liver oil -- a type of fish oil supplement -- contains nutrients that can be good for your skin.
Vitamin A
The vitamin A, or retinoid, found in cod liver oil can benefit your skin. Cells within your skin tissue contain proteins called retinoid receptors, which allow your skin cells to respond to vitamin A in your blood. Proper vitamin A levels in your body help maintain proper functioning of your skin cells, maintaining healthy skin and mucosal membranes. As a rich source of vitamin A, cod liver can contribute to your skin's health.
Vitamin D
Taking cod liver oil also supplies your body with vitamin D, which also contributes to healthy skin. A study published in "Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences" in 2007 indicate that the vitamin D receptor -- the protein that senses the presence of vitamin D -- helps to control your skin's stem cells. These stem cells prove important to proper skin healing and tissue maintenance, so vitamin D might play a role in maintaining healthy skin.
Omega-3 Fatty Acids
Cod liver oil also contains fatty acids that benefit your skin. Your body utilizes omega-3 fatty acids -- essential fats -- in cod liver oil to help moisturize your skin, as well as lubricate your hair shafts and contribute to strong nails. Deficiencies in these fatty acids can cause dry skin. Many American diets contain only small amounts of these fatty acids, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center, so consuming cod liver oil can boost your omega-3 fatty acid intake.
Considerations
While the three major nutrients in cod liver oil all play a role in your skin's health, taking cod liver oil without the supervision of a doctor can prove dangerous. Excess vitamin A, D, or omega-3 fatty acid consumption can cause nutrient toxicities, which can prove fatal. In addition, too much cod liver oil could potentially harm your skin, since excess vitamin A intake can cause skin lesions and rashes. Talk to your doctor before taking cod liver oil to benefit your skin to help reduce the risk of toxicity.
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