Cod liver oil: how to use it properly?

As its name suggests, cod liver oil is extracted from certain species of cod typical of the North Seas, a fish also called cod (or Years of morhua). It is obtained after steaming the livers which are then crushed: all that remains is to decant them to extract the precious oil.

Cod liver oil has the particularity of being rich in essential nutrients that are difficult to obtain in our contemporary diets. Therefore, consuming a tablespoon of cod liver oil daily proves to be a useful move to keep the body healthy.

Properties of cod liver oil: what does this famous substance contain?

Formerly used to treat rickets and bone growth problems, cod liver oil is rich in(2) :

• vitamin D : good for bones, muscles and the heart, it also acts on the intestines and kidneys to absorb calcium and phosphorus, and allow their fixation on the bones;
• vitamine A recognized for contributing to the maintenance of normal vision, as well as the maintenance of the skin and mucous membranes. Vitamins A and D also contribute to the normal functioning of the immune system;
• fatty acids omega-3 (EPA and DHA), essential fatty acids beneficial for health. According to some studies, they play a role in visual and brain functions, and even have positive effects on the skin, hair, nails and teeth.

The cross action of vitamins A and D ensures growth and maintenance of bone stock. Furthermore, a good concentration of essential fatty acids combined with a high level of vitamin D contribute to improve cognitive performance in children and the elderly.

The concrete virtues of cod liver oil

• Vitamin D and omega-3 present in cod liver oil contribute to hair growth. Its daily use will make your hair stronger and give it shine and suppleness.
• Cod liver oil is beneficial for skin health: it helps prevent skin aging, protects against acne and relieves sun damage.
• It helps maintain bones, and in this context helps promote mobility and prevent age-related joint stiffness.
• You can use it to reduce blood pressure, help decrease blood viscosity, maintain healthy cholesterol levels.

The virtues of this natural remedy are varied. To check this, nothing better than to test them yourself. If the taste and smell of cod liver oil in its liquid form does not put you off, consume it pure, otherwise opt for capsules that are easier to ingest. Pay attention to the recommended doses, which depend on weight and age.

Finally, only buy high quality cod liver oil from reputable brands.

Cod liver oil: contraindications

Although cod liver oil is very safe, there are some caveats.

A treatment with cod liver oil can cause nausea, vomiting, loss of appetite or even diarrhea in some people. Furthermore, avoid taking it at the same time as medications or foods that thin the blood (one of the properties of the oil is precisely to thin the blood). Do not combine taking the oil with other medications that also contain vitamins A and D to avoid exceeding the recommended dose of vitamins.

In all cases, it is recommended to see your doctor before embarking on a treatment, even if it is natural medicine.

Republished article