History of Cod Liver Oil
It first became established in the fishing communities of Scotland, Iceland, Norway and Greenland several centuries ago where they used it to protect themselves against the rigour in the intense cold that they were exposed to. Our grandparents are fond of telling stories of taking their daily dose of Cod Liver Oil (CLO) to relieve such complaints as rheumatism, aching muscles and stiff joints. During the 1890s, it was commonly used to treat rickets, which affected nine out of ten malnourished children. In the 1950s, more research was carried out into the essential fatty acids Eicosapentaenoic Acid (EPA) and Docosahexaenoic Acid (DHA) contained in Cod Liver Oil and other oily fish. This research has led to the modern view of Cod Liver Oil as not only beneficial in such conditions as rheumatism, but also as a benefit to the heart and circulatory system. This is now probably one of the biggest selling supplements in Europe.
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. Research has shown that it reduces the likelihood of blood clotting, makes the heart less prone to arrhythmias (irregular heart beats). It alters the balance of blood fats in a favourable way and reduces the viscosity of blood, thereby faciliting blood flow.
Bones and 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.
Pregnancy – Omega 3 fatty acids are important for the brain development of the foetus.
Arthritis – Improvements in the symptoms of rheumatoid arthritis have been reported in patients taking fish oil supplements.
Properties
Cod Liver Oil contains:-
Vitamin A, which is essential for the immune system, bone growth, night vision, cellular growth, testicular and ovarian function.
Vitamin D, which is essential for the absorption and utilisation of calcium and potassium, which are required for skeletal growth.
EPA and DHA, omega 3 fatty acids, which are converted in the body to produce prostaglandins that 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 Live Oil is probably best avoided by pregnant women, asthmatics, diabetics and people taking anti-coagulants, such as Warfarin.
Fish oils can cause nausea when taken initially. It can be lessoned taking them with meals.
DISCLAIMER THIS
INFORMATION (AND ANY ACCOMPANYING MATERIAL) PROVIDED BY HEALTH REACTION IS NOT INTENDED TO
REPLACE THE ATTENTION OR ADVICE OF A PHYSICIAN OR OTHER HEALTH CARE PROFESSIONAL. ANYONE WISHING TO EMBARK ON ANY DIETARY, DRUG, EXERCISE,
OR OTHER LIFESTYLE CHANGE INTENDED TO PREVENT OR TREAT A SPECIFIC DISEASE OR CONDITION
SHOULD FIRST CONSULT AND SEEK CLEARANCE FROM A QUALIFIED HEALTH CARE PROFESSIONAL. HEALTH REACTION STRIVES TO ENSURE THAT INFORMATION PROVIDED
ON THIS SITE IS AS ACCURATE AS POSSIBLE, BUT DOES NOT ACCEPT RESPONSIBILITY OR LIABILITY
FOR ANY INACCURACIES. |
