Cod liver oil, as you might guess, is oil from cod livers. It is rich in
omega-3 fatty acids and may provide numerous health benefits.
It is thought that
omega-3 fatty acids are the main active compounds in cod liver oil. The most important fatty acids in it include eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and
docosahexaenoic acid (
DHA). These omega-3 fatty acids have many different effects in the body, such as:
- Lowering triglycerides -- Omega-3 fatty acids lower triglyceride levels by several different mechanisms.
- Reducing inflammation -- Omega-3 fatty acids seem to decrease inflammation in the body by suppressing a specific enzyme (COX-2) and inflammatory chemicals, such as interleukin-1 (IL-1) and tumor necrosis factor (TNF).
- Decreasing blood clots and blood pressure -- Omega-3 fatty acids decrease the production of a chemical called thromboxane A2. This chemical causes blood platelets to stick together, which encourages blood clots, and increases blood pressure. Because omega-3 fatty acids decrease thromboxane A2, they can "thin" the blood, perhaps preventing blood clots, and lower blood pressure.
Cod liver oil also contains quite a bit of vitamins A and D. Some of its effects may be attributed to these vitamins.
These are just a few of the ways that researchers think cod liver oil may work for treating a variety of conditions. As more studies are done, more information will become available.
Is Cod Liver Oil Effective?
Some cod liver oil uses have more scientific evidence than others. It seems to be effective at treating some conditions and ineffective for others
(see Does Cod Liver Oil Work? for more information).
The most effective and safest cod liver oil doses have not yet been established. However, some general dosing recommendations can be made based on doses used in research studies and on practical experience with the product.
Side Effects of Cod Liver Oil
Cod liver oil can cause several side effects, such as:
- A fishy aftertaste
- Bad breath
- Belching
- Heartburn or indigestion
- Nausea
- Loose stools.
(Click Cod Liver Oil Side Effects to learn more, including potentially serious side effects that you should report immediately to your healthcare provider.)
Normal doses of cod liver oil are probably safe for most people, although high doses can cause problems. Some people are more likely than others to experience problems. Therefore, you should talk with your healthcare provider prior to taking this supplement if you have:
- A bleeding disorder
- Low blood pressure (hypotension)
- Any allergies, including allergies to foods (especially fish), dyes, or preservatives.
Also, let your healthcare provider know if you are:
Make sure to tell your healthcare provider about any other medications you are taking, including prescription and non-prescription medicines, vitamins, and herbal supplements.
What If I Take an Overdose of Cod Liver Oil?
It is not known what exactly to expect from an overdose of cod liver oil, but it is reasonable to assume that taking too much of it may cause the usual side effects, but perhaps more severely. Theoretically, an overdose may cause severe problems, such as internal bleeding or problems from a vitamin A overdose, as cod liver oil contains vitamin A.
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