Norwegian cod liver oil and glucosamine are available as nutritional supplements that are used for conditions such as arthritis and inflammation. Cod liver oil and glucosamine supplements are considered relatively safe; however, they may also cause unwanted interactions with some medical conditions, supplements or medications. Check with your physician before using any dietary supplement.
Norwegian Cod Liver Oil
Proponents of Norwegian cod liver oil claim that it contains fewer contaminants like mercury, which they claim is found in smaller concentrations than in fish from other countries. All cod liver oil is rich in vitamins A and D. Together, these vitamins promote the integrity of your skeletal structure and the functioning of your immune system. The UC Berkeley Wellness Guide to Dietary Supplements cautions, however, that the amount of vitamin A in cod liver oil supplements may be dangerously high. Because vitamin A is fat-soluble, it is not excreted daily through the urine. As a result, the vitamin can accumulate to toxic levels in the blood and tissues.
Glucosamine
Glucosamine is a substance your body naturally produces and uses in the cartilage in your joints. Supplemental glucosamine is most often associated with the treatment of conditions of the joints such as osteoarthritis. Glucosamine supplements, according to MayoClinic.com, are usually made from shellfish and can cause severe problems in people who are allergic to these substances. Glucosamine can also cause an upset stomach and may also alter blood sugar levels, although more research is needed to understand this effect. Glucosamine may also improve the functioning of the immune system.
Norwegian Cod Liver Oil and Glucosamine Interaction
Taking Norwegian cod liver oil with glucosamine does not appear to cause an adverse reaction and, in fact, is indicated for people with bursitis, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center. Both supplements can cause an increased risk of bleeding, however, because both have an anti-coagulant effect. If you are considering the use of both Norwegian cod liver oil and glucosamine, MayoClinic.com recommends that you check first with your physician regarding the correct dosage.
Considerations
Taking both Norwegian cod liver oil and glucosamine may provide some benefit for people living with inflammatory disorders. Glucosamine supplements may, however, contain significant amounts of sodium or potassium, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center. If you have a pre-existing condition such as heart disease that requires you to avoid excess sodium or potassium, check with your physician before using a glucosamine supplement. If you are considering the use of cod liver oil and glucosamine and are already taking an anti-inflammatory medication, see your doctor first. Your dosage may need to be adjusted to avoid a cumulative anti-coagulant effect.
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