7 Incredible Benefits of Cod Liver Oil

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Cod liver oil has been taken as a dietary supplement for centuries. It is extracted from the liver of the Atlantic Cod (Gadus morhua), and is extremely high in Omega 3 fatty acids. This supplies us with the good fats that our bodies need, to function efficiently, and makes it a natural anti-inflammatory product. In addition, cod liver oil contains vitamins A & D and has other health benefits. These include:

1. Maintains Bone Health

Our bodies can convert sunlight into vitamin D, which is very important to develop and maintain healthy cell functions and bone metabolism. For those living in more temperament climates a vitamin D supplement is recommended. Cod liver oil can be used by people of all ages, and has been used to prevent rickets in children since 1824, as well as for older people to treat osteoporosis.

2. Decreases Cancer Symptoms

There are many different types of cancer and each comes with its own symptoms. The vitamin D and fatty acids contained in cod liver oil help to reduce these in some types of cancer, including breast cancer. It also lowers the risk of tumours developing, and helps to keep cancer that has been treated in remission.

3. Increases Fertility

Omega 3 fatty acids help to boost the production of sex hormones in both the male and female reproductive systems. The anti-inflammatory properties contained in cod liver oil also promote healthy pituitary and adrenal glands, as well as the hypothalamic system. These glands are responsible for regulating pregnancy and reproductivity.

4. Helps Control Diabetes

Irregular blood glucose levels, controlled by insulin production in the body, are the main reason that people develop diabetes. There are also many related illnesses that can be caused by having this disease, and the fatty acids contained in cod liver oil help to control these as well as regulate insulin production. Omega 3 supplements are also recommended during pregnancy to decrease the chances of the new-born developing the disease. Research is also being conducted into whether cod liver oil can be used as a diabetes treatment, in addition to preventative measure.

5. Treats Arthritis

The anti-inflammatory properties in cod liver oil help to reduce pain, joint stiffness and swelling in arthritic patients. The supplement works in the same way that many prescribed medications do, and is used alongside them to treat rheumatoid arthritis.

6. Regulates Cholesterol

Many of our diets have a high content of Omega 6 fatty acids, which can lead to increased cholesterol levels. Cod liver oil provides our bodies with Omega 3 fatty acids, which balance good fat with the bad in the body helping to lower cholesterol.

7. Improves Cardiovascular Health

Normal blood pressure and cholesterol levels within our bodies are essential for a healthy heart. Cod liver oil helps lower the number of triglycerides in our bloodstream, reducing the risk of heart disease. The Omega 3 fatty acids also help to prevent hardening of the arteries, which control the blood flow through our body and maintain proper cardiovascular health.

 

 

Sophie Robinson
Sophie growing up was told by multiple doctors her chronic sinusitis would never subside. Healthy eating, daily exercise and yoga completely cured her and transformed her life. Sophie is now extremely passionate about all things related to health and fitness. She is a fulltime blogger and content contributor at HealthyHubb.com