Cod liver oil supplements are used to supply the body with additional vitamins and typically are available in either capsule or liquid form. The oil is made by cooking and extracting the fatty oils from the cod fish. It contains high amounts of vitamins A and D, and is a good source of omega-3 fatty acids. Cod liver oil supplements can be used to complete an overall healthy diet. They can also be used to ease symptoms associated with cartilage damage or joint stiffness.
There can be numerous benefits from taking cod liver oil supplements because of the vitamins that they contain. Vitamins A and D help to promote a healthy immune system and strong bones. Omega-3 fatty acids can help to improve brain function and fight off certain types of allergies. Eicosapentaenoic and docosahexaenoic acids found in cod liver oil can help prevent Alzheimer’s disease. Taking cod liver oil supplements can also aid the cardio vascular system and reduce depression or behavioral disorders.
People who suffer with rheumatoid arthritis or osteoarthritis may find some relief by taking cod liver oil supplements. Inflammation and cartilage breakdown happens with both of these conditions. The symptoms include pain in the joint area, loss of flexibility, loss of range of motion, and inflammation. Enzymes are thought to be the reason for the cartilage breakdown, but the omega-3 fatty acids found in cod liver oil can slow down the enzymes and ease the painful symptoms. It can also help to stop the further deterioration of the joints and cartilage.
These types of supplements can be beneficial for some people, but there are possible side effects that can occur while taking cod liver oil supplements. People who have blood disorders should not take anything that contains omega-3 fatty acids because it can interfere with blood clotting. This can lead to internal bleeding of hemorrhaging. The significant amount of vitamin A and D present in the cod liver oil can cause birth defects if it is taken by an expectant mother. Nausea, diarrhea, and abdominal swelling can also occur by taking too much cod liver oil.
Mixing cod liver oil supplements with certain prescribed medications can be life threatening. It increases the blood-thinning effect of some medications and this can lead to internal hemorrhaging. Diabetics are also discouraged from using the oil because it is harder to control blood sugar levels. If taken for a long period of time, a diabetic’s risk for blood-related complications can rise considerably.