What is cod liver oil?

Cod liver oil is extracted from the liver of cod, traditionally Atlantic cod (Gadus morhua). It has been used as a nutritional supplement in Northern Europe and Scandinavia for centuries.

Its use became particularly widespread during the eighteenth and nineteenth centuries. It was valued as a source of nutrients during the long, dark winter months.

Unlike standard fish body oils, cod liver oil naturally contains vitamins A and D alongside omega-3 fatty acids. These nutrients work together to support normal immune function, bones, vision and cardiovascular health.

The combination of omega-3 fatty acids with vitamins A and D gives cod liver oil its distinctive nutritional profile. This has helped maintain its popularity as a traditional nutritional supplement.

Omega-3s for joint and cardiovascular health

Like other fish oils, cod liver oil provides the long-chain omega-3 fatty acids EPA and DHA. These fatty acids support normal heart function and healthy blood triglyceride levels.

EPA and DHA also play important roles in your body’s inflammatory processes. This has contributed to interest in omega-3 fatty acids for maintaining comfortable joints and normal mobility.

Omega-3 fatty acids are also important components of cell membranes throughout your body. They help maintain normal cell structure and function.

Cod liver oil therefore combines omega-3 fatty acids with naturally occurring vitamins A and D. This gives it a distinctive nutritional profile compared with standard fish body oils.

Vitamin D, vitamin A, and winter wellness

Cod liver oil naturally contains vitamin D, which has contributed to its traditional use in northern climates such as the UK.

Your body produces vitamin D through sunlight exposure, which can be limited during autumn and winter. Vitamin D contributes to normal immune function and helps maintain healthy bones and muscles.

Cod liver oil also provides vitamin A, which contributes to normal vision and supports normal immune function. Vitamin A also helps maintain healthy skin and mucous membranes.

The combination of vitamins A and D with omega-3 fatty acids gives cod liver oil a distinctive nutritional profile. This has helped establish its longstanding reputation as a traditional winter supplement.

Choosing and using cod liver oil

Cod liver oil is available as a traditional liquid, often flavoured to soften its distinctive fishy taste. Softgel capsules offer a convenient alternative.

When choosing cod liver oil, check the vitamin A and D content per serving. Levels can vary considerably between brands and products.

If you take other supplements containing vitamins A or D, consider your total daily intake. Both vitamins are fat soluble and can accumulate in your body at high intakes.

Choose cod liver oil from a reputable manufacturer that tests for purity and contaminants. Fish liver can concentrate certain environmental compounds, making quality and testing important.

Taking cod liver oil with a meal can support the absorption of its fat soluble nutrients.