Cod liver oil and fish oil is often confused by many people as both have benefits and are the best sources of omega 3 fatty acids and EPA. The difference between these both is that fish oil of obtained through the body of fish while cod liver oil is pressed from the liver of the fish. To know more about them in detail, read out this article.
Is Cod Liver Oil the Same as Fish Oil?
Many people use the names of these oils interchangeably and could not recognise the difference between both. Is cod liver oil the same as fish oil? Well, these both are different from each other as one is pressed from a whole fish and the other is obtained from the liver of fish. The cod oil, in some cases, contains an excessive amount of vitamin A and vitamin D. These vitamins are generally not found in omega 3 supplements. The one which is best for you depends on your nutritional needs and the reason for consuming it.
Cod Liver Oil and Fish Oil. An Overview
Cod liver oil and fish oil may sound the same to you but are two different supplements. They come from different sources and have some unique benefits. The benefits of these both are due to the omega 3 fatty acids found in them. Omega 3 supports the number of ailments in the body. Since the human body cannot produce omega 3, you need to include them in your diet through fish or omega 3 supplements. The fatty acids in the fish oil are EPA and DHA, important for the body. These are important for the body and needs to be included in the diet.
The kind of omega 3 fatty acids ALA is also found in some plant-based sources, such as vegetable oil, nuts and seeds. However, these sources are not yet proven as beneficial as fatty acids from fish oil. If you do not consume at least two servings of fish per week, you may benefit from these oils.
Source of Cod Liver Oil and Fish Oil
The fish oil is extracted from the whole fish. The fish known as a good source of fish oil are:
- Mackerel
- Tuna
- Salmon
- Anchovies
- Herring
The cod liver oils, however, come from the livers of codfishes. The Atlantic codfish and pacific codfish are the popular fish for the cod liver oil.
Benefits of Cod Liver Oil
The cod liver oil is made from the fish liver and has EPA and DHA. However, cod liver oil is likely to be contaminated than other fish oil supplements since the liver is responsible for detoxifying the toxins. The benefits of cod oil are that it contains vitamin D and vitamin A, which are important for the body. If you are vitamin D deficient, consuming cod liver oil is good for you. however, taking cod liver oil in combination with another omega 3 supplements, there is more risk of having excessive vitamin D and A in the body. Cod liver oil is known to have a rich amount of both vitamin A and vitamin D. the anti-inflammatory properties of cod liver oil has made it a popular supplement for many problems.
Cod liver oil may help lower inflammation, reduce pain, maintain healthy bones, prevent respiratory illness, lower blood pressure, promote healthy foetal brain function and reduce anxiety and depression. Cod liver oil is also given to children in some countries, especially to prevent the risks of rickets. However, it is usually not recommended for breastfeeding and pregnant women.
Benefits of Fish Oil
Fish oil is the pure source of omega 3 fatty acids. It is beneficial for heart health, mental health, pregnancy, breastfeeding and many others. Here are the other benefits of fish oil:
- Supports skin health
- Improves liver health
- Prevents mental health disorders
- Supports healthy brain functioning
- It reduces inflammation and relaxes the body
- Improve joints mobility
- Supports pregnancy
- Good during breastfeeding
How Much Should You Take?
Fish oil and cod liver oil dosage is based on your body requirements. Calculate the dosage of both oils based on the EPA, DHA, and vitamins they have. However, there is no such recommendation for their dosage. As you know that both cod liver oil ad fish oil are the best sources of omega 3, which is an important nutrient for a healthy body. However, a recommended daily dose of omega 3 can provide recommended intake of DHA and EPA. However, your doctor may recommend you higher dose of it according to your condition. The common conditions are depression, higher triglycerides and ulcers. However, doctor may recommend it for several other health conditions as well.
The recommended amount of cod liver oil must not be exceeded as it can higher the level of vitamin A in the body. Make sure to calculate the amount of omega 3 you are consuming. Cod liver oil is said to have more vitamin A and D and is good for those who want extra vitamins. Do remember that too much amount of omega 3 in the body can have risky Side effects as well. It is recommended to take one oil at a time and do not take both together. Moreover, you can also take fish oil with extra vitamin A and D vitamin supplements, if you want extra vitamins but don’t want to consume cod liver oil. It is better to ask your doctor before adding them to your diet.
Final Words
Fish oil and cod liver oil are two supplements rich in omega 3 fatty acids. Both are obtained from fish; however, cod liver oil is pressed from the liver of codfish. The fatty acids in fish are essential for the healthy functioning of the brain, heart and overall body. Doctors recommend taking these fatty acids during pregnancy as it helps the developing foetus. Both oils are beneficial for health, but make sure to ask your doctor before taking them together.