by Sandra Bazen Cobb

Created on: November 03, 2009   Last Updated: November 26, 2009

Take Cod Liver Oil to Improve Your Health

Cod liver oil, taken daily, has been proven to provide many remarkable health benefits.

The Tradition of Cod Liver Oil

Fifty years ago and for many years before that, parents and grandparents had their children and grandchildren dutifully line up to take the dreaded tablespoon of cod liver oil. They believed it would not only improve the health of the children, but that it would also be pro-active in preventing future illnesses and conditions that tend to plague people as they age.

The Benefits of Cod Liver Oil

Cod liver oil is believed to have positive effects on brain function, memory, cholesterol, stress, bone development and healthy bone maintenance, strong teeth, digestion, arthritis, heart function, hypertension, bipolar disorder, manic depression, allergies, psoriasis, asthma, learning disorders, blood sugar levels, the immune system, new cell growth, and even inflammation of the arteries.

Studies have shown that cod liver oil has been effective in reversing rickets in children and osteomalacia in adults. Osteomalacia is a softening of the bones which is believed to be caused be a vitamin D deficiency. Rickets is the same condition as osteomalacia, but it occurs in children.

As more researchers are learning about good health practices in this modern age of technology and research, it seems that this information continues to lead them back to what today would be considered non-traditional healing modalities. In other words, research the "ancient" traditions and remedies to achieve optimum health.

How Does Cod Liver Oil Improve Your Health?

The reason cod liver oil is often recommended for daily use is because it contains high levels of vitamin D and vitamin A, high levels of EPA (a polyunsaturated fatty acid) and DHA, which are omega-3 fatty acids, and small amounts of vitamin K.

DHA can reduce the risk of heart disease by reducing the level of blood triglycerides. Research has also shown that low levels of DHA have been associated with Alzheimer's disease and sever depression. DHA is also believed to inhibit the growth of colon cancer.

Recent studies have encouraged pregnant women to increase their intake of DHA because it has a positive effect on the child's vision and ability to concentrate, as well as supporting healthy brain development.

Alternatives to Cod Liver Oil

Many people use alternatives such as flax seed and a higher intake of fish as food. However, flax seed only contains a portion of the omega

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