Cod Liver Oil is obtained from the liver of cod fish. Its flavor and aroma range from a mild sardine-like flavor, to an intense odor of fish and oil. High quality cod liver oil is a pale-yellow, thin, oily liquid, having a slightly fishy and bland taste, however some manufacturers add flavors as well. It is rich in vitamin A, vitamin D, EPA, DHA and omega-3 fatty acids. Cod liver oil is widely used for treatment of arthritis. The high vitamin A and D content make it an effective supplement for children for prevention of rickets and for nursing mothers to increase fatty acids and vitamin A in breast milk. It is also effective in treatment of ordinary burns.

Omega-3 DHA

Omega-3 EPA

Vitamin A is a fat-soluble vitamin with known toxicity. Although its toxicity has been exaggerated, it is a factor worth keeping in mind. Carotine is converted in the human body to Vitamin A, it comes from vegetable sources. Vitamin A is necessary for normal growth and for skeletal development.

Vitamin D is a group of related sterols with anti-rachitic properties, or “which that prevents rickets”. About 16 forms are known but only two are important in human nutrition. Vitamin D2, also known as ergocalciferol or irradiated ergosterol, is found in lipid portions of plants. Vitamin D3, termed otherwise as cholecalciferol or irradiated 7-dehydrocholesterol, is the substance formed on the skin upon exposure to the ultraviolet rays of sunlight. From this, the name “sunshine vitamin”. It is, however, erroneous to say that vitamin D comes from sunlight; instead, the sunlight activates the vitamin D precursors named earlier. This fat-soluble vitamin is responsible for the normal bone and teeth development because it facilitates the absorption of calcium and phosphorus. Given this function, it is helpful to take in calcium supplements with vitamin D so as to promote proper absorption and utilization of the mineral. Minimum requirement of vitamin D is met by having dairy products, salmon and sardines, and egg yolk in the diet. Fish liver oil is the most concentrated source of vitamin D but is only used in medical and therapeutic purposes. Normal exposure to sunlight, preferably at 6 to 9 AM and 4 to 6 PM would be enough for precursor activation.