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Fish oil is a popular dietary supplement derived from fatty fish such as sardines, anchovies, mackerel, and salmon. The oil extracted from the livers of Atlantic cod is known as cod liver oil. It is commonly used as a dietary supplement and is high in nutrients. It is one of the best sources of omega 3 fatty acids and a good source of vitamin A and vitamin D. The precise nutrient concentration in cod liver oil is determined by the species of cod from which the oil is derived.
Cod liver oil has many therapeutic properties. It is thought to help relieve arthritis-related joint stiffness, improve cardiovascular health, and repair damaged teeth, nails, hair, and skin. There are many other health benefits of cod liver oil. Following are some of the health benefits of cod liver oil:
Supports a Healthy Cardiovascular System
Cod Liver Oil contains a high concentration of omega-3 fatty acids, which are essential for overall health. They are considered ‘healthy’ or ‘good’ fats and help keep triglyceride levels within a normal range. Eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) in cod liver oil supports a healthy cardiovascular system and healthy blood circulation. It also aids in the reduction of blood pressure and triglycerides.
Plays Vital Role in Brain Health
Cod liver oil is high in docosahexaenoic acid (DHA), an omega-3 fatty acid. DHA has been shown in studies to improve cognitive function and protect against Alzheimer’s disease and dementia. Furthermore, it aids in the relief of anxiety and depression symptoms. Numerous researches have found that omega-3 fatty acids found in cod liver oil can help with anxiety and depression symptoms.
Furthermore, numerous studies have discovered a link between increased vitamin D blood levels and a reduction in depressive symptoms. Although it is unknown how vitamin D relieves depression symptoms, some research suggests that it can bind to brain receptors and stimulate the release of mood-improving hormones like serotonin.
Supports Strong Bones and Teeth
It is critical to maintaining healthy bones and teeth as you age. After the age of 30, you begin to lose bone mass which can lead to fractures later in life, particularly in women following menopause. Cod liver oil is an excellent source of vitamin D and may help to prevent age-related bone loss. This is because it aids your body’s absorption of calcium, a necessary mineral for strong bones.
It has been demonstrated that when combined with a high-calcium diet, taking a vitamin D supplement such as cod liver oil can reduce bone loss in adults and strengthen fragile bones in children. For many years, cod liver oil has been used to prevent vitamin D deficiency, also known as rickets. Because of the anti-inflammatory effects of omega-3 and vitamin D, it appears that cod liver oil may also be beneficial to people with rheumatoid arthritis.
Anti-Cancer Properties
As cod liver oil contains both vitamin A and omega-3 fatty acids, it is an effective cancer-fighting agent. It has anti-inflammatory properties that aid in the prevention of cancer cell development and may also be used to treat cancer. Cancerous tumors require the formation of new blood vessels to grow, a process known as angiogenesis. Cod liver oil inhibits tumor growth by preventing the formation of new vessels and disrupting cancer cell reproduction.
Supports Eye Health
Cod liver oil has a high omega-3 fatty acids and vitamin A content, which have been shown to protect against inflammatory eye diseases. High-vitamin-A diets may also reduce the risk of glaucoma when compared to low-vitamin-A diets. Researchers discovered that people who consumed the most vitamin A had a much lower risk of glaucoma than those who consumed the least amounts of vitamin A. Although vitamin A is beneficial to eye health, taking large amounts may result in vitamin A toxicity.
Improves Liver Health
Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is a medical issue caused by excessive build-up of fat in the liver. This health problem is prevalent among people due to poor diets, obesity, and type II diabetes. Although the optimal dose of omega-3 fatty acids found in cod liver oil is unknown, evidence suggests that they may lower fat levels in the liver.
The Takeaway
There are many health benefits of cod liver oil. As cod liver oil capsules contain vitamins A and D, so make sure that you do not take any other multi-vitamins that may exceed the daily requirements. It is always essential to choose a product from a reputable supplement company, such as Nutrifactor, that tests fish liver oil for purity before distribution, as poorly purified fish liver oil may contain contaminants such as mercury.
Vitamin and mineral supplements provide a concentrated and often more convenient dose of omega-3 for those who may not be able to meet their needs solely through diet. People who do not consume cod liver oil supplements are really missing out on the wonderful benefits. However, it is always preferable to obtain nutrition through food first and supplement only when additional support is required. To get authentic and good-quality cod liver oil supplements, visit Nutrifactor.
