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Cod liver oil is derived from liver of Gadidae or cod fish and is available in oil form and capsules. It’s a pale yellow, oily, translucent liquid that possesses a fishy essence and a bland taste. This oil is high in omega-3 fatty acids, docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) and eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA)[1] [2]. It is also a nutritional supplement with rich levels of vitamin A and D[3]. All of these important nutrients will help the human body in different ways and enhance the healthy functioning of organs. In this post, TrueRemedies will discuss the benefits of cod liver oil, its uses for beauty and health, etc.
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Cod Liver Oil: Its Benefits, Uses, And Side Effects
I. Benefits Of Cod Liver Oil & Its Uses For Health And Beauty
Cod liver oil is an excellent nutritional supplement providing multiple health benefits. Omega-3 fatty acids found in this oil contain anti-inflammatory agents, which help to alleviate the symptoms of arthritis, reduce stress, prevent allergies, improve brain function, relieve asthma, etc. Vitamin A present in this oil aids in maintaining a healthy immune system, and resisting bacterial and viral infections while its vitamin D helps to maintain healthy and strong bones. Along with that, consuming 1-2 teaspoons of cod liver oil every day can prevent serious diseases such as diabetes, cancer, arthritis, kidney problems, musculoskeletal pain, and high cholesterol.
1. Enhance Fertility
Omega fatty acids in the cod liver oil help to produce sex hormones, including both progesterone and estrogen. A study in 2008 showed that cod liver oil might help to increase testicular and ovarian health thanks to its essential omega-3 fatty acids[4]. Besides, it comes with numerous anti-inflammatory agents, which aid in enhancing the adrenal glands, pituitary glands, and hypothalamic system.
2. Treat Arthritis
According to a 2002 study, cod liver oil can be useful for treating rheumatoid arthritis[5]. Besides, the consumption of cod liver oil can help to decrease NSAIDs (non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug) requirement in rheumatoid arthritis. For this remedy, it’s best to take 1-2 tsp of cod liver oil every day.
3. Provide Bone Health
Thanks to its vitamin D, cod liver oil will help to boost bone health. It also helps to decrease the risks of several bone disorders such as osteoporosis. A study indicates that vitamin D present in cod liver oil helps to decrease the chance of bone health and associated disorders[6].
4. Treat High Cholesterol
A study points out that cod liver oil can assist in regulating your cholesterol levels owing to its high amount of fatty acids[7]. For this treatment, you just need to consume cod liver oil (1-2 teaspoons) every day.
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5. Relieve Muscle Aches And Pain
Low vitamin D levels can cause bone and muscle pain. According to a study in 2012, a daily dose of cod liver oil can help you ease bone and muscle pain gradually because it has plenty of vitamin D[8]. Numerous studies have indicated that consuming cod liver oil (1 to 2 teaspoons) daily can increase levels of vitamin D in the body, which aids in improving muscle strength and lowering muscle pain.
6. Boost Cognitive Function
Cod liver oil has the power to treat and decrease the symptoms of some brain-related disorders such as depression, bipolar disease and ADHD. Research indicates that omega-3 fatty acids can have a positive impact on regulating and maintaining cognitive function[9].
7. Prevent Heart Disease
Vitamin A and D found in cod liver oil play vital roles in encouraging mineral absorption and improving muscle function. As stated by studies, individuals who frequently eat fish have a lower risk of developing heart disease. This is because it is abundant in omega-3 fatty acids[10] [11]
Besides, it improves heart conditions even after heart surgery and after a heart attack. Taking cod liver oil (1-2 teaspoons) daily can improve heart function greatly, which is beneficial for preventing heart disease.
8. Lower Cancer Symptoms
You can easily eliminate the symptoms of different types of cancers by taking a regular dose of vitamin D from cod liver oil supplements and sunlight. According to a 2009 study, cod liver oil has an antiproliferative and proapoptotic impact on cancerous cells in the breasts, reducing the chance of tumor development[12].
9. Reduce Type I Diabetes In Children
Cod liver oil can aid with insulin resistance that regulates blood sugar levels. A study in 2000 showed that pregnant women taking cod liver oil have a lower chance of giving birth to children with type I diabetes[13].
10. Promote Immune System
As you know, cod liver oil is high in vitamin D. A lack of vitamin D can cause autoimmunity and can raise the susceptibility to infection[14]. Taking cod liver oil regularly will offer the required amount of this vitamin, reduce the chances of infection and improve the immune system[15].
11. Ensure Eye Health
Cod liver oil plays can help protect the eyesight thanks to its multiple vitamins. Taking vitamin A regularly can prevent blindness and ensure the normal vision altogether[16] [17]. This oil is also used effectively in the local treatment for fighting against various eye conditions such as red eyes or dry eyes.
12. Prevent Osteoporosis
A lot of post-menopausal women often use cod liver oil supplements every day to inhibit osteoporosis-related problems[18] [19]. This is because vitamin D found in cod liver oil is beneficial for maintaining bone health.
13. Treat Dry Skin
Dry skin often causes itching, redness, and burning. Thankfully, cod liver oil can aid in moisturizing and softening dry skin. This oil can decrease levels of leukotriene B4 that has been related to severely dry skin if taken orally. Thus, it can help dry skin appear healthy and shiny. You can use cod liver oil supplements to deal with this problem.
14. Combat Dermatitis
Dermatitis can include various types such as atopic dermatitis or eczema and seborrheic dermatitis. Dermatitis can be treated and controlled by using omega-3 fatty acids[20]. The acids can be found in cod liver oil. This oil also contains anti-inflammatory agents that can improve dermatitis. You can directly apply cod liver oil to the rash. Alternatively, take cod liver oil supplements as directed by a physician or dermatologist.
15. Eliminate Psoriasis
OrganicFacts.net indicates that psoriasis can be controlled by taking cod liver oil. This is because an omega-3 fatty acid found in cod liver oil can prevent the growth of inflammatory-inducing agents, causing psoriasis[21]. Applying this oil topically can assist in relieving this skin condition.
16. Fight The Premature Grey Hair
According to many studies, regular intake of cod liver oil supplements can assist in preventing the premature graying hair. Thus, you should start including cod liver oil in your diet or taking its supplements if you notice the premature graying signs.
17. Prevent Wrinkles And Other Aging Signs
Cod liver oil is helpful for combating fine lines, wrinkles, and other aging signs. After using this oil for some time, you can see the remarkable improvement in the skin texture. It’s best to massage the skin in circular motions to attain better results when applying this oil to the skin.
18. Remove Scars
Owing to its healing agents, cod liver oil is known for removing local burns, stretch marks, and scars. Applying cod liver oil frequently can provide you with glowing and radiant skin. Consuming cod liver oil can also make your skin look youthful.
19. Remove Pimples And Acne
You just need to include cod liver oil in your daily diet if you experience acne breakouts. Its application also provides you with a significant change in your skin texture. It’s suggested to mix this oil with natural ingredients to make ideal facial masks for acne and pimples.
II. What Are The Side Effects Of Cod Liver Oil?
When used in moderation, cod liver oil is safe. It’s recommended that you consult your physician before using cod liver oil on a daily basis if you are currently taking medication or pregnant. Don’t consume extremely large doses of this oil because this can result in high blood pressure.
III. Where & How To Buy Cod Liver Oil
You can buy cod liver oil in most drug stores and pharmacies. Also, it can be found in liquid form. Look for cod liver oil with pale-yellow in color and having a fish-like taste.
Now that you know about the outstanding beauty and health benefits of cod liver oil. Include this wonderful oil in your diet to improve your health and beauty. If you want to read more other such articles, please go to our main Superfoods page.
The content available on this post is provided for educational and informational purposes. Therefore, you are advised to consult your doctor before using this oil.
