Cod liver oil is basically a type of fish oil supplement. Similar to regular fish oil, cod liver oil is also rich in omega-3 fatty acids. Omega-3 fatty acids are linked to many health benefits, such as reducing inflammation and lowering blood pressure. Fish oil is also good for babies, as being elaborated in health benefits of fish oil for babies.
People, including seniors, are suggested to take cod liver oil. Our body cannot create the essential fatty acids naturally, so supplements such as cod liver oil, are the only way to get them. For seniors, there are even more factors to considerate to consume cod liver oil. Omega-3 fatty acids are beneficial to help lower bad cholesterol or triglyceride levels.
So, let’s get to know these amazing health benefits of cod liver oil for seniors you need to know.
1. Reduce Inflammation
Inflammation is a process which is natural. It helps the body fight infections and heal injuries. However, in some cases, inflammation can be harmful as it continues at a low level for long periods of time. This condition is called chronic inflammation. This type of inflammation may increase the risk of getting high blood pressure and heart disease.
However, the omega-3 fatty acids in cod liver may help reduce the chronic inflammation. It does that by suppressing the proteins that promote it.
Vitamin A and D in cod liver oil are also powerful antioxidants. By binding and neutralizing harmful free radicals, those vitamins can also reduce inflammation.
2. Reduce Joint Pain and Improve the Symptoms of Rheumatoid Arthritis
Most seniors experience rheumatoid arthritis as they are aging. Rheumatoid arthritis is an autoimmune which is characterized by the damage to the joints. Unfortunately, there is no cure yet for treating rheumatoid arthritis, but some studies suggest the use of cod liver oil to improve the symptoms and reduce joint pain.
3. May Support Eye Health
Many seniors lose their vision as this issue has affected over 285 million people worldwide. Loss of vision can be caused by several factors, including glaucoma and age-related macular degeneration. Both of these factors can result from chronic inflammation.
Thankfully, the omega-3 fatty acids and vitamin A in cod liver oil have been proven to protect against eye diseases, especially the ones caused by inflammation.
Eye health is very important and that is why we need to maintain it well. Read it more about these benefits of Mulethi for eyesight. That’s a traditional medication, so it would be safer than using medicine.
This can be supported by the diets which are high in vitamin A. These diets may reduce the risk of glaucoma and age-related macular degeneration (AMD).
Despite the great impact for eye health, it is not suggested to take high doses of it as it may lead to vitamin A toxicity.
4. Maintain Bone Health
It is important to maintain bone health, even though you’re in your senior age. Cod liver oil is considered as a great dietary source of vitamin D. This will also help your body absorb calcium, which is necessary for maintaining strong bones from the gut
Getting enough vitamin D from food and supplements, such as cod liver oil is important. It may also help prevent yourself from osteoporosis.
5. Other Benefits
There are some other benefits of cod liver oil for seniors, such as:
All of us have known the great health benefits of cod liver oil for seniors. Despite all those great benefits, there are some cautions you need to pay attention to before consuming. There are a few mild side effects of cod liver oils reported, such as heartburn, bad taste, diarrhea, gastrointestinal discomfort, bad breath, and nausea. You need to stop consuming it if you experience any of those side effects mentioned before.
Regarding to the dose, the dose varies for everyone. There is no official recommendation yet regarding how much seniors should take every day. Older adults shouldn’t take more than 250 mg of EPA and DHA (types of fish oil). If you have high blood pressure, you can take up to 15 grams and 10 grams if you have rheumatoid arthritis.
Cod liver oil may also interfere with other medications or treatment of certain conditions. If you take medications or herbs for some health issues, such as hypertension or managing blood clotting, make sure to consult with healthcare provider before deciding to take this supplement.
Do you know that cod liver oil is also beneficial for skin? Read these benefits of cod liver oil for skin and start considering to use one!
There’re some other types of fish oil that are good, even for our cats. Read the health benefits of fish oil for cats you might not know before!