Cod Liver Oil

Cod liver oil and fish oil are similar, but cod liver oil has much higher levels of vitamins A and D. Depending on the quality of the oil, the flavor and aroma range from a mild sardine-like flavor, to an intense odor of fish. High quality cod liver oil is a pale-yellow, thin, oily liquid, having a slightly fishy and bland taste. Manufacturers sometimes add flavorings, such as citrus or mint essence, to cod liver oil to make it more palatable. Cod liver oil is widely taken to ease the pain and joint stiffness associated with arthritis, and has also been clinically proven to have a positive effect on heart, bone, and brain, as well as helping to nourish skin, hair, and nails. Because cod liver oil has a very high level of Vitamin A, it is possible to exceed the Recommended Dietary Allowance (RDA) of vitamin A. Vitamin A accumulates in body fat, and can reach harmful levels sufficient to cause hypervitaminosis A. Pregnant women may want to consider consulting a doctor when taking cod liver oil because of the high amount of natural forms of Vitamin A (Retinol). High doses of synthetic Vitamin A (Retinoids) have been shown in some cases to cause birth defects.