What is Cod Liver Oil?

“Just close your eyes, plug your nose, and swallow it!”  These words were what some of our grandmothers used to tell our mothers and what our mothers used to tell us just before it was our turn to swallow that teaspoon of slimy stuff…yes, cod liver oil.

Codfish is a fatty tasty fish that provides with low levels of saturated fat. Cod liver oil, is oil taken from the liver of codfish.  Cod liver oil has been used for many years as a common home remedy to fight various ails, aches and pains.  In the past, cod liver oil was known as an oily, thick and bland-tasting liquid.  Now it’s available in gelatin capsule form that is virtually free of taste.

For centuries, cod liver oil was commonly taken by fishermen from Norway, Scotland, Greenland, Iceland and Newfoundland.  It was used to keep the body warm duding the winter, fight off colds and coughs, and prevent the risk of developing rickets. Over the years it has become known as a natural tonic passed down from generations.   While there is a lot of published data about the many health benefits associated with cod liver oil, there is still more information yet to be discovered.  Some of its benefits include:

  • Strengthening of muscles, joints and bones
  • Regulating blood pressure
  • Improving blood flow
  • Improving brain function and development
  • Promoting healing from illness or injury
  • Improving kidney and liver function

What makes cod liver oil good for you?

Cod liver oil is a rich source of omega 3 fatty acids, a chain of unsaturated fat that the body needs but cannot produce on its own; therefore it must be obtained from food. The three main types of Omega 3 fatty acids that are integral to the body’s metabolism are a-Linolenic Acid (ALA), Eicosapentaenoic Acid (ELA) and Docosahexaenoic Acid (DHA).  Cod liver oil is also a good source of vitamin A and vitamin D, hence,  the combination of omega 3 fatty acids coupled with vitamins A and D could make cod liver oil a good source of nutrition.

Is cod liver oil better than fish oil?

The jury is still out on this question.  Some medical experts believe fish oil is the healthier alternative, others believe that cod liver oil is the best thing since sliced bread.  All in all, both types of fish oil are good sources to get your intake of omega 3 fatty acids.  One difference worth noting is that cod liver oil has vitamins A and D in addition to omega 3 fatty acids.  Whether or not this makes a considerable difference is undecided as both sources of fish oil offer the same health benefits.  It could just come down to personal preference.

Grandma may swear by cod liver oil.  You might prefer to take fish oil.  In the end, either supplement can offer your body a world of good.

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