General Description
Cod liver oil is a pale yellow oil obtained from the livers of cod
fish (family Gadidae). Most cod liver oil is obtained from the North
Atlantic cod, Gadus morhua, although a North Pacific species, Gadus
macrocephalus, is also used. Chief producers of the oil include
Norway, Iceland, and Japan. One of nature's richest sources of vitamin
D and vitamin A, cod liver oil is also an excellent source of the
omega-3 essential fatty acids EPA (eicosapentaenoic acid) and DHA
(docosahexaenoic acid).
Health Applications
- Cardiovascular health
- Bone strength
- Vision
- Inflammation
- Skin health
Primary Uses
Most of the uses for cod liver oil relate to its vitamin and essential
fatty acid content. Its vitamin D content makes cod liver oil
useful for promoting mineral absorption and bone strength. The
high levels of vitamin A in cod liver oil can promote vision,
skin health, and immune function. Cod liver oil's high omega-3
essential fatty acid content may make it helpful for inflammatory
conditions and cardiovascular health as well. Animal studies indicate
that cod liver oil may inhibit the development of hypertension
and atherosclerosis.1-4 Other research suggests
that cod liver oil may have antiinflammatory activity;5-7
however the efficacy of cod liver oil in the treatment of inflammatory
conditions has not been demonstrated in clinical trials.
Dosage/Toxicity
A common dosage recommendation for cod liver oil is one teaspoon
per day, which supplies 92% of the daily value for vitamin A and
115% of the daily value for vitamin D. Because high intakes of
vitamins A and D can lead to toxic accumulations in the body,
cod liver oil intake above two teaspoons per day is generally
not recommended. | 
