Natural Cod Liver Oil Supplement
Should I Take Cod Liver Oil Supplements?
Cod liver oil is just that - oil extracted from the liver of codfish native to the cold waters of the North Atlantic. Often referred to as cod oil, fish liver oil and / or fish oil, cod liver oil is revered in the health community as an excellent source of omega-3 fatty acids - essential fatty acids proven to benefit heart and brain health. Cod liver oil continues to be studied for its potential in aiding mood disorders, inflammation and vision, and has been shown in clinical studies to impact triglyceride and cholesterol levels in the body.
As a dietary supplement, cod liver oil is available in both liquid and capsule form and is typically flavored to offset any undesirable taste. Many fish oil products have been approved by the FDA but at the time of this writing are available only by prescription.
Cod liver oil health benefits and claims
The omega-3 fatty acids contained in cod liver oil are especially high in docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) and eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA), two compounds scientifically proven to benefit cardiovascular health. As a result, the FDA announced in 2004 the availability of a qualified health claim for reduced risk of coronary heart disease (CHD) on the labels of conventional foods that contain eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) omega-3 fatty acids. Previously, the FDA announced a similar qualified health claim for dietary supplements containing EPA and DHA omega-3 fatty acids for the reduced risk of CHD.
In further support of the positive impact of omega-3 fatty acids on heart health, a report published in the Journal of the American Heart Association states that the omega-3 fatty acids contained in fish oil may reduce the risk of arrhythmia, lower triglycerides and blood pressure in the body and improve arterial well-being.*
Regardless of its proven benefits to heart health, claims that fish oil can strengthen the immune system, fight free radicals, deter macular degeneration, aid cognitive function, relieve migraines and hay fever, and assist with neural disorders remain relatively unsubstantiated.
*Statement not evaluated by FDA.
Cod liver oil safety and toxicity
Cod liver oil naturally contains high levels of vitamins A and D, which in excess can be toxic to humans. Nutritionists suggest exercising caution when taking cod liver oil in conjunction with other dietary supplements containing vitamins A and D.
Recent reports indicate the level of harmful contaminants found in ocean fish is on the rise. Dioxins, methylmercury and PCBs have been found in many species from which fish oil is extracted, including tuna, cod, salmon, halibut and others. For this reason, molecularly distilled fish oil is presumed safest. Molecular distillation is a process by which impurities such as pesticides and heavy metals are removed from fish oil. Molecularly distilled fish oils also tend to contain higher levels of EPA and DHA.
It is advisable that pregnant and nursing women consult a physician prior to beginning a cod liver oil regimen. Those taking blood thinners or with bleeding disorders are also advised to consult with a doctor, as fish oil acts as an anticoagulant in the body.
The FDA recommends not to exceed doses of more than a total of 3 grams per day of EPA and DHA omega-3 fatty acids, with no more than 2 grams per day from a dietary supplement.
Adverse reactions and side effects
Gastrointestinal side effects such as belching, gas and heartburn may result from cod liver oil supplementation. Side effects can be minimized significantly by taking cod liver oil with meals or by starting a regimen with smaller doses and increasing amounts gradually. Because of its anti-coagulant properties, fish oil in large doses may increase the risk of bleeding.
Other possible cod liver oil side effects include:
Abdominal bloating
Acid reflux
Diarrhea
Low blood pressure
Nosebleeds
Blood in urine
Nausea
Cod oil compared with other fish oils
Fish oils that contain both omega-3 EPA and DHA are said to be the most beneficial to good health. These include oils derived from cod, mackerel, lake trout, herring, sardines, albacore tuna and salmon. Depending on the source of the fish and the distillation process used in manufacturing, fish oils can vary in strength, level of contamination and actual EPA and DHA content. Although it’s a source of debate as to which fish makes a better supplement, most believe that deep-sea, coldwater fish contain fewer contaminants and are more nutritious.
Cod liver oil and the FDA
Notwithstanding the FDA’s approval of qualified health claims for products which contain omega-3 DHA and EPA, over-the-counter fish oils and dietary fish oil supplements are not FDA approved. As a result, the purity, effectiveness and safety of many fish oil products remain uncertain. Rancidity resulting from poorly processed fish oil has been reported, and many fish oil supplements contain far too low levels of omega-3 EPA and DHA to benefit health.
References
1. May Give You a Reason to Smile More. Better Nutrition. Oct 2007 v69 i10 p13(1).
2. Fish for the Best Oil. Gorin, Amy. Prevention; May2007, Vol. 59 Issue 5, p82-82, 1/4p, 1c.
3. Knock Out Arthritis, Autoimmune Diseases and Wrinkles. Sears, Barry. American Chiropractor, Oct2006, Vol. 28 Issue 11, p54-57, 3p; (AN 22799863)
4. Cod liver oil monograph. Natural Medicines Comprehensive Database.
5. Fish oils gaining in popularity. Natural Standard. September 2005. www.standard.com
6. Omega-3 fatty acids, fish oil, alpha-linolenic acid. Natural Standard Monograph 2007.
7. Take your cod liver oil and stay happy. Natural Life. Sept-Oct 2007 p37(1).
8. Fishing for other sources of EFAs. Todd Runestad. Functional Foods & Nutraceuticals. Paddock Wood: Feb 2007. , Iss. 62; pg. 36, 7 pgs.
9. New guidelines focus on fish, fish oil, omega-3 fatty acids. American Heart Association. November 18, 2002.
10. FDA Announces Qualified Health Claims for Omega-3 Fatty Acids. September 8, 2004. Food and Drug Administration.
By: Mitch Pellecchia
Article Directory: http://www.articledashboard.com
For more information on Cod Liver Oil, visit www.VitaCost.com/Cod-Liver-Oil.
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