You must have heard your grandma telling you about the benefits of taking cod liver oil. Cod liver oil is obtained from the liver of cod, a fish. It contains fatty acids, vitamin A , E and D which are essential to the human body. Before the discovery of Omega-3 fatty acids, the health benefits of cod liver oil were attributed to vitamin A and vitamin D contained in it.

Benefits of Cod Liver Oil
Cod liver oil can be used as a supplement. A tablespoon or 15-grams of cod liver oil taken daily can fulfill an individual's requirements of Omega-3 fatty acids, vitamin D and A. Let's take a look at these nutrients in cod liver oil:

Omega-3 Fatty Acids
Fatty acids found in cod liver oil are present in the form of Omega-3 fatty acids, which is vital for the healthy functioning of the heart and the brain. Omega-3 fatty acids also play an important role in the proper functioning of joints and the digestive system.

Omega-3 fatty acids can only be obtained from external sources such as cod liver oil because our human body cannot produce it. Fish is the primary source of omega-3 fatty acids. Omega-3 fatty acids such as Docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) and Eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) are necessary for a healthy human body. Cod liver oil contains the essential DHA and EPA Omega-3 fatty acids.

Cod liver oil contains DHA which is very beneficial for the nervous system, ears and eyes. It also aids in countering depression. Taking cod liver oil daily can help a person suffering from intermittent or chronic depression. Women suffering from postpartum depression are also prescribed cod liver oil. It is also know to cure ear infections. Cod liver oil, through EPA present in it, is believed to reduce inflammation. EPA is also necessary to maintain the emotional health of a person.

Benefits of cod liver oil capsules are apparent in people suffering from severe arthritis. These capsules, taken for 12 weeks, can reduce joint pain by inhibiting cartilage damaging enzymes.

Vitamins and Calcium
Cod liver oil contains Vitamin A which is important for the normal growth of the body cells. It is an essential factor in maintaining our ability to see in the dark. Cod liver oil promotes healthy skin and strong mucosal linings, especially in the digestive tract. Cod liver oil can be relied on to supply vitamin A, which is often prescribed for many digestive and skin disorders.

Vitamin E contained in cod liver oil helps the body in the processing of fatty acids. It is a good antioxidant and helps in improvement of the skin and hair quality. A teaspoon of cod liver oil contains 10 IU of vitamin E.

Vitamin D is not available in natural foods commonly. For people who live in areas like the tundra, where daylight is available for a short time, benefits of cod liver oil supplements, are immeasurable. Cod liver oil fulfills their need of vitamin D and strengthens bones in children and adults.

Vitamin D present in the cod live oil strengthens immune system and helps the body in regulating its blood sugar levels. Cod liver oil, through vitamin D, helps prevent type II diabetes and high blood pressure.

Calcium is essential in the formation and maintenance of teeth and bones in the body. Cod liver oil helps the body in the absorption of calcium.

Benefits of cod liver oil in children are well known. Cod liver oil is useful for children with neurological problems. Rickets, one of the most common children's diseases in developing countries, makes them prone to bone fractures and deformity. Vitamin D present in cod liver oil prevents the disease. Osteomalacia in adults can be prevented by using cod liver oil as a dietary supplement. This disease, like rickets in children, is a condition involving weakening (softening) of bones, and is caused due to vitamin D deficiency.

Disadvantages of Cod Liver Oil
The major disadvantage of cod liver oil is the high levels of vitamin A and D content. Pregnant women should consult doctors before taking a cod liver oil, as high doses of vitamin A can cause birth defects. Carrots, fruits and vegetables are good alternative sources of vitamin A. In large quantities, vitamin D is toxic to the human body. Egg yolks and milk are a good sources of vitamin D.

Vitamin A and D present in cod liver oil doses could easily oversupply the actual need of our body. Some brands of cod liver oil contain 5,000 IU of vitamin D per teaspoon, whereas the recommended quantity must not be greater than 800 IU for an adult.

Cod liver oil is a very good nutritional supplement, when taken in small doses. Nowadays, vitamin-fortified food products and multi-vitamins, make relying on cod liver oil as the source of vitamin A and D unnecessary. Fish oil obtained from cells of oil-rich fish also contain Omega-3 fatty acids, DHA and EPA. Fish oil does not contain vitamin A and D. Consumption of fish oil though, can give you the health benefits of cod liver oil. Before following an established practice of consuming cod liver oil as a supplement, it is necessary to take medical advice.