Fish oil is one of the most popular supplements in America, boasting a booming, one billion dollar business each year, according to Harvard Health Publishing. Cod liver oil is one particular type of fish oil that comes from the liver of cod fish and is especially high in healthy, polyunsaturated fats known as omega-3s and omega-6s. According to experts, there are several cod liver oil benefits for your health—but there are just as many reasons why you might want to stay away from the supplement.
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Cod Liver Oil Benefits
“Cod liver oil may support brain, heart, and joint health. It is a source of omega-3 fatty acids. It also contains vitamins A and D, which play an important role in maintaining the health of the eyes, bones, brain, and immune system,” the Cleveland Clinic writes.
Some studies have found that cod liver oil may help to reduce inflammation, especially after exercise. It is sometimes used as a drug-sparing agent in patients with rheumatoid arthritis.
Catherine Hyatt, MD, medical content lead at Levity, says the heart health benefits are especially promising but notes that the FDA has not evaluated cod liver oil for medical use. "There is some evidence that these may help lower blood pressure which could improve heart health, although more extensive research is needed," she tells Best Life.
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Cod Liver Oil Risks
However, Hyatt says you should exercise caution when considering cod liver oil supplements: "While there may be some evidence for using cod liver oil, the FDA has found this to be inconclusive. In general, a food-first approach is preferred over supplementation."
Hyatt explains that, unlike other types of fish oil, cod liver oil is a natural source of Vitamin D—and that this could be a risk or benefit, depending on your baseline levels. "There is a risk of over-supplementation here, so if you are already taking a supplement containing vitamin D, you should not take cod liver oil," she advises.
The doctor adds that cod liver oil can interact with certain prescription medications and, therefore, "it’s always important to speak to your clinician to ascertain if it would be a good fit for you."
Similarly, the Cleveland Clinic says that it’s important to tell your doctor if you are considering cod liver oil and have certain health conditions. These include diabetes, high blood pressure, high cholesterol, kidney disease, liver disease, and stomach problems. People who are pregnant or breastfeeding, have allergies to fish oils, foods, dyes, or preservatives, and those who consume excessive amounts of alcohol should not take cod liver oil.
If you decide against taking cod liver oil, you can still get omega-3 fats from food sources such as fatty fish, eggs, nuts, seeds, and legumes. Talk to your doctor to learn more about the role of polyunsaturated fats in your diet, as well as the safest way to reap their benefits through food or supplementation.
