The Benefits of Cod Liver Oil
Blood flow - may be aided by EPA and DHA discouraging blood platelets from sticking together.
Blood pressure - EPA and DHA may help reduce this.
Coronary heart disease - risk may be reduced if regular intakes are given.
Bones & teeth - require vitamin D to maintain their strength. Cod Liver Oil is a good source of vitamin D.
Vision - vitamin A is essential for the formation of visual purple (for night vision).
Healthy skin and mucous membranes - CLO is rich in vitamin A; the large amount present is beneficial for skin and mucous membranes.
Properties
Cod Liver Oil contains:
1. Vitamin A which is essential for the immune system, bone growth, night vision, cellular growth, testicular and ovarian function.
2. Vitamin D which is essential for the absorption and utilisation of calcium and potassium which are required for skeletal growth.
3. EPA and DHA, omega 3 fatty acids which are converted in the body to produce prostaglandins which affect a wide variety of physiological processes due to their modulating effect on the action of hormones. It is thought that EPA and DHA may reduce the risk of coronary heart disease. DHA seems essential for normal brain development in unborn babies.
Contra-indications / Precautions
Cod Liver Oil is probably best avoided by pregnant women, asthmatics and diabetics.
Because of the antithrombatic effect of cod liver oil supplements, haemophiliacs and those taking warfarin should exercise caution in their use.