In the 19th century, cod liver oil was often used to boost vitamin D levels in children living in sun-deprived climates (and, in turn, protect them from rickets). Today, many people use cod liver oil to soothe the symptoms of arthritis. Indeed, research suggests that the anti-inflammatory effects of cod liver oil may benefit patients dealing with osteoarthritis or rheumatoid arthritis. There's also some evidence that cod liver oil may fight upper respiratory tract infections, such as the common cold).
While cod liver oil was once notorious for its unappealing taste, newer products tend to offer a more pleasant flavor. However, since certain types of cod may be endangered, choosing fish oil supplements made from sustainable sources (such as salmon oil) may be more ecologically responsible. Like cod liver oil, other forms of fish oil help supply your body with heart-healthy, inflammation-fighting omega-3 fatty acids.
I just wanted to point out that there are alternative ways of
getting your Omega 3s. I stopped taking fish oil supplements as soon as my acupuncturist Duane Law questioned the source of the fish. He got me taking a Omega 3-6-9 blend of oils from fresh, certified organic flax, sesame, sunflower and evening primrose seeds as well as oils from rice and oat germ.
Omega 3′s derived from seeds do not readily convert from ALA into EPA and DHA Omega 3s. Conversion rates in healthy people are 2-5% at the very best.
It;s a common misconception that flax oil/other seed oils are just as effective – they aren’t. Your acupuncturist should do more reading before he dispenses nutritional advice.
It is good to question the source of fish oils, although most reputable manufacturers have 3rd party testing done to check for purity.