by Kate McKee

Created on: November 04, 2009   Last Updated: November 26, 2009

Cod liver oil is probably one of the best known nutritional supplements on the market today. Made from the livers of cod fish, it has high levels of omega 3 fatty acids, but unlike other fish oils it also contains very high levels of Vitamins A and D.

The health benefits of cod liver oil have been known for a very long time. So many of us have childhood memories of holding our noses for the daily spoonful, but it goes back even further than a couple of generations: from as far back as 1700's physicians were prescribing it regularly. This longevity speaks for itself. But it has also led to a tendency for people to dismiss cod liver oil as yesterday's news, especially with the advent of so many new 'super supplements' such as resveratrol.

But, unlike so many of the more fashionable supplements, the research on cod liver oil is conclusive and irrefutable: in study after study, cod liver oil has been shown to have enormous health benefits. In fact, taken as a daily supplement, it could revolutionize your health. This is because of the unique combinations of the omega 3 acids (EPA and DHA) and the Vitamins A and D.

EPA has been shown to be an effective anti- inflammatory. It has also been proven to be effective in reducing or preventing mental health conditions such as schizophrenia, depression and suicidal behaviors. Research indicates that it improves patient's responses to chemotherapy, and may help to prevent certain cancers.

DHA has a similar effect on chemotherapy responses, and there are indications that it may inhibit the growth of colon cancer cells. It is the fatty acid that is most often recommended as a supplement for pregnant and breastfeeding women, as low levels have been associated with poor visual acuity and cognitive development in infants. For this reason it is often added to infant formulas.

Vitamin A promotes good eyesight, healthy skin, and it keeps the immune system healthy.

Vitamin D (which many people are deficient in) is important for bone health, as it helps the body to absorb calcium. It helps to prevent osteoporosis, and it is thought to have important anti- cancer properties.

So, it's obvious that cod liver oil, which has very high levels of each of these four substances, has a whole range of health benefits.

Let's summarize them:

* Promotes heart health: research has shown that a daily dose reduces the risk of heart attack and other forms of cardiovascular disease.

*Promotes brain health: cod liver oil has been effective in preventing

• 1
• 2
• Next Page >>