Many of us pop a cod liver oil capsule - or if we're brave gulp it down in liquid form - on a daily basis.
But have you ever stopped to wonder what it actually does for you?
Well, the answer is quite a lot, according to WebMD.
For centuries we've been quaffing the golden gloop to make sure we get enough vitamin D - known as the 'sunshine vitamin', as its rays are one of the best natural sources.
The supplement was especially popular in northern Europe during the winter months.
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Where does cod liver oil come from?
As the name states, the oil is taken from the livers of Atlantic cod before being purified. The leading producers are northern countries such as Iceland and Norway.
People take cod liver oil capsules for a variety of reasons, such as helping prevent cardiovascular disease and to ease arthritic joint pain.
Scientists estimate that more than a billion people globally are lacking in vitamin D - and this can lead to problems. Deficiency is linked to bone fractures in the elderly and abnormal brain development in children.
The importance of vitamin D
Not getting enough vitamin D may also lead to metabolic syndrome - the medical term for a combination of diabetes, high blood pressure (hypertension) and obesity. The condition puts you at a bigger risk of getting coronary heart disease, stroke and other conditions that affect the blood vessels.
As well as copious amounts of vitamin D, cod liver oil also contains vitamin A - an essential nutrient for a healthy immune system.
Vitamin A is also vital for healthy eyes, cellular growth, and reproduction.
Cod liver oil is also rich in omega-3 fatty acids, which helps reduce inflammation in the body and regulate blood clotting.
Nutritionally, what do I get from a spoonful of cod liver oil?
- Calories: 123
- Protein: 0 grams
- Fat: 14 grams
- Carbohydrates: 0 grams
- Fiber: 0 grams
- Sugar: 0 grams
What are some of the health benefits?
Taking cod liver oil on a daily basis offers a significant amount of essential vitamins and fatty acids.
According to WebMD it may be able to:
Help prevent glaucoma and treat it
Glaucoma is a leading cause of blindness.
The vitamin A in cod liver oil helps prevent cellular damage from oxidation, which can lead to the development of glaucoma. The vitamin can also help prevent the eye structure from deteriorating.
Elsewhere the omega-3s in cod liver oil offer significant effects. Fatty acids such as DHA and EPA are said to help lower pressure and boost blood circulation in the eye - which can help stall the development of glaucoma.
Help prevent multiple sclerosis (MS)
Low levels of vitamin D levels have been linked to multiple sclerosis (MS). One study discovered that people who had taken cod liver oil during adolescence had a lower risk of developing adult-onset MS. However, the MS Society says it's still learning about the exact role vitamin D plays in the condition.
Ease rheumatoid arthritis
The anti-inflammatory effects of cod liver oil have helped many cope with the joint pain of rheumatoid arthritis.
A five-month study showed that people who took cod liver oil experienced lower pain scores.
Potential risks of cod liver oil
Cod liver oil is undoubtedly an excellent source of nutrients, and experts agree it's safe to take on a daily basis.
However, there are a few minor risks associated with it. As with anything, it is sensible to chat with your doctor before taking it or any other supplement.
Pay close attention to the following before consuming cod liver oil:
Pregnancy worries
While cod liver oil could ensure pregnant women get enough vitamin D, some experts have advised against taking the supplement during pregnancy - as increased vitamin A levels can harm the unborn baby.
Potential interference with other medication
Do not take cod liver oil if you are taking blood thinners such as Warfarin. It can increase the blood-thinning effects of the medication, which can lead to potentially dangerous levels of bleeding.
