Cod Liver Oil is a fish oil supplement, which is different from regular fish oil supplements. The source of cod liver oil is the liver of Atlantic Cod whereas the source of regular fish oils is the tissue of oily fish like mackerel, tuna, herring, and anchovies. The benefits of cod liver oil are many but since times immemorial, it has been a remedy for joint pains and rickets.
With the high intensity of Vitamin D, the cod liver has been used for the treatment of rickets, which is caused due to acute Vitamin D deficiency. It has an impressive nutrient profile and 1 teaspoon of cod liver oil provides 90% of the daily requirements of Vitamin C and 113% of the daily requirements of Vitamin D. Cod liver oil uses include the upkeep of healthy bones and controlling calcium absorption. Read further to know the various benefits and uses of cod liver oil.
What are the Benefits of Cod Liver Oil?
Cod liver oil supplement is available in liquid as well as capsule form. Whether your intake of cod liver oil is in the form of liquid or capsule, the benefits are the same. The various cod liver oil capsules benefits are:
1. Upkeep of Healthy Bones
The cod liver oil capsules benefits can be attributed to the impressive nutritional profile that constitutes Vitamin D and Vitamin C. Both Vitamin D and Vitamin C help maintain healthy bones and treat Rickets, a disease caused due to high deficiency of Vitamin D.
2. Reduces Inflammation of Joints
The cod liver oil consists of omega 3 fatty acids that curb the proteins that promote inflammation. Chronic inflammation, i.e. inflammation that exists for extended periods, increases the risk of heart-related conditions. The antioxidant properties of Vitamin D and Vitamin C help in reducing inflammation by fighting free radicals.
3. Maintains Healthy Skin
The cod liver oil benefits skin as well. Vitamin D present in cod liver oil enhances the benefits of cod liver oil. The antioxidant and anti-comedogenic properties of Vitamin D helps in fighting free radicals to prevent skin damage.
The acne-combatting property of cod liver oil is derived from Omega 3 fatty acids like EPA and DHA. Moreover, the anti-inflammatory properties of these fatty acids aid in preventing inflammation of the skin. Being a rich source of Vitamin D, cod liver oil also helps in treating cystic acne. It also works towards the reduction of acne scars owing to the presence of Vitamin A as well. If you are consistent in the usage, you will reap the optimum benefit of cod liver oil capsules for the skin.
4. Reduces Joint Pain and Rheumatoid Arthritis Symptoms
The anti-inflammatory properties of Omega 3 fatty acids present in cod liver oil provides relief from joint pains by curbing inflammation of joints in individuals suffering from rheumatoid arthritis.
5. Supports Eye Health
Glaucoma and macular degeneration are the two main age-related causes for vision loss. However, these two conditions are a result of chronic inflammation. Omega 3 fatty acids and Vitamin A that are sourced from cod liver oil help in supporting eye health from diseases that inflammation causes.
6. Promotes Hair Health
There are various cod liver oil benefits for hair. It is considered to be the natural elixir for hair health. Omega 3 fatty acids present in cod liver oil prevents hair loss by stimulating hair follicles. It also helps in maintaining the texture and lustre of the hair.
7. Reduces Anxiety and Depression
Chronic inflammation is one of the causes of anxiety and depression. The anti-inflammatory properties of Omega 3 fatty acids help in reducing them. Also, Vitamin D promotes the secretion of serotonin, the mood-enhancing hormone that helps keep anxiety and depression at bay.
Cod Liver Oil Side Effects
Cod liver oil used in moderation is safe. Cod liver oil side effects are generally an outcome of heavy doses. Some of the side effects could be stomach upset, nausea, and heartburn. Heavy doses of Vitamin A and Vitamin D can cause bleeding, as they prevent blood clotting.
Cod liver uses are many and its side effects are generally rare but may be possible in some cases. You should be consulting a physician if you experience any of these side effects:
- Nausea
- Breathing issues
- Swelling of face
- Headache
- Allergic reaction
Avoid intake of cod liver oil during pregnancy, as it accumulates Vitamin A. An increased level of Vitamin A can harm the development of the foetus.
How to Use Cod Liver Oil?
There is no particular recommended dosage of cod liver oil. The level of requirement is age-related. Generally, 3000mg of cod liver oil daily is considered safe. However, consult a physician for the right dosage before consumption of the cod liver oil supplement.
Conclusion
The inclusion of walnuts, soybeans, and flaxseeds can provide you with the required amount of omega 3. These contain AHA which our body can convert into EPA and DHA. But the daily required level cannot be generated by our body on its own. Around 3000 mg of cod liver oil is safe for adults. But to derive this level from a natural diet is difficult. To unlock the benefits of cod liver oil, it is recommended to consume cod liver oil supplements that are available both in the liquid as well as the capsule form.
