Natural Medicine Clinic Publications

Cod Liver Oil-Why Great Gramma was Right

By Nancy Aagenes, ND

People who do not eat fish once a week have about twice as many heart attacks. Studies show that we do not eat enough fish. Cod liver oil contains essential fatty acids, which are anti-inflammatory in our bodies. This makes useful in the treatment of dermatitis, arthritis, cardiovascular disease, asthma, and improves brain function. Vitamin A rich, it improves immune system function and helps with skin disorders. Cod liver oil also contains vitamin D, which is important for good bone health. Cold-water fish such as cod contain omega-3 fatty acids (EPA/DHA) these specific fatty acids have been shown to decrease stickiness of the blood, lower blood triglycerides, and increase HDL (the "good" cholesterol).

Carlson Cod Liver Oil, the kind we recommend at the clinic, comes from the livers of fresh cod fish found in the North Atlantic waters near Norway. Only cod fish caught during the winter and early spring are used as the liver oil content is highest at this time of year. The oil is separated from the liver tissues without the use of chemicals. To insure the freshness of the oil, the air inside the bottle is replaced with nitrogen.

Even our grandmothers knew that a daily tablespoon of cod liver oil was useful in long term health. Now you know some of the scientific reasons why they were right.