Fish Oil and Cod Liver Oil

Dec 13
08:14

2011

Sharad Gaikwad

Sharad Gaikwad

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In an era where people are largely relying on supplements for the required amount of nutrients, the rising query is which supplement is more reliable than the others?

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With a unanimous acceptance towards supplements made from fishes,Fish Oil and Cod Liver Oil Articles the question is – Fish Oil or Cod Liver Oil?

Let us take an attempt to figure out which of these two oils benefits the body more or rather which of the two is richer with nutrients. We can pick up every aspect of these supplements and analyze them comparatively.

Manufacturing Benefits

Cod liver oil, like it sounds, is extracted from the liver of the cod fish. The liver of cod fish steamed and pressed to extract the oil from it, which is made available in the form of liquid as well as capsule. On the other hand, fish oil is made from the flesh and skin of different types of fishes. This is also steamed and pressed to extract the oil which is made available only in the form of capsules.

Richer With Omega-3 Fatty Acids

The two key fish-obtained omega – 3 fatty acids are EPA and DHA, both of them being extremely crucial for a balanced development of the brain, stronger immune system, healthy vision, nutritious growth and so on. Amongst children, the level of DHA determines their intelligence. Higher level of DHA leads to a brighter child. Amongst adults, it has several heart benefits. Fish Oil and Cod Liver Oil, both, contain equal amounts of EPA and DHA, making them equally preferable while prescribing them only for the purpose of omega 3s.

Richer With Vitamins

Vitamins, in a fish, are persevered only in its liver. Thus, Cod Liver Oil has rich amounts of nutrients, while the Fish Oil lacks them. Cod liver oil contains good amounts of Vitamin A that is beneficial for healthy eyesight and good skin. It also does wonders for improving the immune system and fighting various bacterial and virus infections. Liver oil also contains vitamin D in high proportions that helps maintaining strong and healthy bones and teeth. It is a vital nutrient for children. Thus, while prescribing a supplement for vitamins, cod liver oil takes the deal.

Safety Measures

Looking at safety of consuming these supplements, the debate gets arguable. Since cod liver oil is richer with respect to vitamins and omega 3s, the consumption has to be well monitored. An overdose of any vitamin can lead to several complexities. It can do more harm to the body than good. Thus, consumption of cod liver oil has to be based on strict prescription. On the other hand, fish oil is only rich with omega 3s, an over consumption of which would not be as harmful or fatal. However, even their consumption should be well monitored. Calculating on safety levels, Fish oil is believed to be safer than cod liver oil.

It is also said that since cod liver oil is extracted from the liver, an organ which filters the contamination of the body, would contain more contaminated elements that the fish oil. Thus, care should be taken while choosing the manufacturer of your Cod liver oil. If the manufacturer believes in offering the best of healing properties of the liver while eliminating the harmful ones, there remains nothing to worry about. Also, pregnant women must consult their gynecologists before consuming cod liver oil.

The bottom line being, cod liver oil does miracles and wonders to your body and health, if only consulted well before consumption!