Cod liver oil is a liver oil, i.e. obtained from the liver of a certain group of fish and marine mammals, which is a rich source of ingredients necessary for health and proper functioning of the immune system. Its heyday was in the 60s and 70s of the last century – then cod liver oil was the most popular, but the healing properties of the oil are also appreciated today.
Why is cod liver oil healthy?
Cod liver oil is primarily a wealth of unsaturated fatty acids and vitamins. The valuable oil contains a lot of omega-6 and omega-3 fatty acids, such as EPA (eicosapentaenoic acid) and DHA (docosahexaenoic acid). Thanks to its valuable ingredients, liver oil supports the proper functioning of the central nervous system, stimulates the functioning of the brain, and supports the processes of vision and heart rhythm.
Among the vitamins contained in cod liver oil, vitamin A comes to the fore, which has a beneficial effect on the eyesight, the immune system, as well as the growth of bones and teeth. The composition of liver oil also includes vitamin D3 (especially important for the proper development of children) and some amounts of vitamin E, called the vitamin of youth, which has strong antioxidant properties (it reduces the harmful effects of free radicals on the body and slows down the cellular aging process).
Cod liver oil, as a supplement to a proper diet, is recommended primarily to children whose body is developing dynamically and whose immune system is still immature. This type of oil is administered during the so-called. infectious periods, recommends patients during convalescence and weakened people. Cod liver oil also supports learning and memory processes and accelerates the regeneration of damaged bone tissue.
When and how to take cod liver oil?
At the pharmacy, you can buy cod liver oil obtained from shark, cod, seal and whale liver. There are liquid preparations and tablets (or capsules).
Fish oil should be taken in accordance with the dose specified on the package or recommended by the doctor. Indications for its use are states of reduced immunity and vitamin deficiencies (especially vitamins A and D). In addition, as a natural source of unsaturated fatty acids, liver oil has a beneficial effect on the circulatory system, lowers blood pressure, prevents arrhythmias (heart disorders) and inhibits the formation of blood clots in blood vessels. Cod liver oil also helps to regulate the body’s lipid metabolism and reduce the concentration of “bad” cholesterol (LDL) in the blood plasma. As a consequence, it reduces the risk of developing atherosclerosis and cardiovascular diseases. In addition, liver oil supports the function of the gastrointestinal tract, respiratory tract, kidneys, retina and reproductive organs.
Fish oil ointment has found application in dermatology. Fish oil is used in patients with rickets, malnourished. There are also reports of the anti-cancer effect of liver oil, as well as the role it may play in lowering the risk of developing dementia and Alzheimer’s disease in chronically ill people and seniors. This dietary supplement is also recommended for people addicted to alcohol and nicotine.