Cod liver oil: super fat!
Many people think cod liver oil is made from whales and consider it a smelly concoction. Plenty of parents and/or grandparents took it to get through autumn and winter well. But cod liver oil isn’t old-fashioned—it’s very much of today! Its richness in nutrients makes a great addition to our Western diet.
Fortunately, cod liver oil is usually made from cod. The liver of this fish—often eaten as battered fillet or kibbeling—is packed with healthy oil. That oil is extracted from the liver using various methods. What remains is cod liver oil.
Healthy fats
Cod liver oil consists largely of two healthy fats: eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA). These are two omega-3 fatty acids that the body can produce little, if at all. They occur in large amounts only in marine foods such as sea fish and seaweed. Getting enough EPA and DHA nourishes the body from within in an evolutionarily sensible way.
DHA is a remarkable, ancient, and irreplaceable molecule in many living beings—especially in humans with their developed brains. That’s why eating fish twice a week is recommended. For those who don’t, omega-3 supplements or cod liver oil are good alternatives.
Vitamins A and D
All natural oils also contain fat-soluble vitamins. Cod liver oil is rich in vitamins A and D. Vitamin A supports skin, eyes, growth, and immunity. Vitamin D helps maintain strong bones and teeth. These vitamins are often re-added to regular cod liver oil because they are lost during industrial processing. With natural cod liver oils like those from Green Pastures and Rosita Real Foods, no synthetic vitamins are added. These oils are minimally processed and therefore contain all their natural nutrients and vitamins.
Phosphorus and iodine
Cod liver oil also contains plenty of phosphorus and iodine. Like EPA, DHA, and all vitamins, these minerals are essential nutrients. Phosphorus helps keep bones strong, and iodine is necessary for thyroid hormone production.
Very much of today
Contrary to popular belief, cod liver oil is thoroughly modern: it doesn’t come from whales but is derived from fish we commonly eat. It also contains many healthy fats and fat-soluble compounds. That makes cod liver oil—put in contemporary terms—super good!
How to take cod liver oil
With all its beneficial components, cod liver oil can be a valuable addition to our Western diet. It’s widely available in many forms. If you want only the best, it’s wise to do thorough research before buying a cod liver oil product. Ergomax’s personal favorite is Rosita Real Foods’ Extra Virgin Cod Liver Oil.
