What is Cod Liver Oil?
Cod liver oil is a specific type of fish oil, made from steam cooking cod livers. The cod livers are then pressed and the oil from the pressing is gathered. Cod liver oil may come in liquid or capsule form, and is high in both vitamins A and D. It is also an excellent source for omega-3 fatty acids.
Traditionally cod liver was a patent remedy for a number of childhood ailments. Children unfortunately had to take cod liver oil in liquid forms which depending upon its quality, could be vastly unpleasant in taste. Some cod liver oil tastes quite rancid and extremely fishy; numerous baby boomers still shudder at the thought of having to take a dose of it.
Though many older remedies have proven unhealthful, cod liver oil actually did deliver a high dose of vitamins, and may have promoted heart health. It was not a cure-all, though it was frequently used to treat a variety of ailments. Most often children took a daily dose as part of a healthy diet.
Though cod liver oil has its merits, it may be too high in vitamin A. In higher doses it definitely exceeds the recommended daily allowance (RDA) for vitamin A. It has been shown that vitamin A from liver sources may in fact be harmful when taken during pregnancy. Prenatal vitamins tend to be much lower in vitamin A than cod liver oil to prevent increasing risk for developing diabetes during pregnancy.
Male adults and women who are not pregnant may actually benefit from cod liver oil more than fish oil, particularly during winter months. This is because the vitamin D levels of cod liver oil have been shown to compensate for lack of exposure to sunlight during winter. Many recommend switching to fish oil during spring and summer since one generally gets adequate levels of vitamin D from sunlight during these times. Further, if one drinks milk fortified with vitamins A and D, it may be better to stick to regular fish oil.
Since cod liver oil now comes in capsule form, many are spared having to taste it, though one may have an unpleasant burp or two which will taste intensely fishy. There is also flavored cod liver oil in liquid form. Some use mint or orange flavors to cut down on the bad taste.
People affected with different forms of arthritis often take a daily supplement of cod liver oil as it is thought to reduce joint pain. Like fish oil, cod liver oil may also be heart healthy. One caution exists for those who regularly experience heart arrhythmias. Fish oil has been shown in recent studies to increase risk of arrhythmias in those who have already experienced heart rhythm problems. Though cod liver oil has not been studied for the same possible effect, it may be wise to consult a physician prior to taking it.
Written by Tricia Ellis-Christensen
