Most people that are health conscience understand the value of taking fish oil but they do not understand the difference between fish oil and cod liver oil. While both products contain the good for you fatty acids that can help to keep your heart healthy there is a difference in where the oil is gathered from.
Each type of oil has similar benefits although there are some health experts that lean more one way than the other when it comes to which is more beneficial. Understanding the differences can help you make a more informed decision on which type is best for you.
Fish Oil
Fish oil is derived from fatty flesh of deep sea fish. It is rich in Vitamin D and Omega 3 fatty acids which are thought to help with inflammation as we age and with cardiovascular health. Fish oil has one primary advantage over Cod Liver oil.
Fish oil can come from any number of fish. The source fish is not as important as the amount of oil contained in the capsules (capsules are the preferred choice of delivery).
Cod Liver Oil
Cod Liver oil was historically used as a tonic to treat a host of maladies ranging from stomach upset to the treatment of arthritis and other illness. Many homes had bottles of Cod liver oil in their refrigerators to keep on hand “just in case”.
Today Cod liver oil is usually taken in capsule form like other fish oils. Cod liver oil is higher in Vitamin D than fish oil. It is sourced directly from the Cod fish’s liver. The sourcing is why fish oil may actually be healthier for users.
Since the oil is sourced from the liver which is responsible for cleaning the impurities of the fish it can be high in harmful things like mercury and other toxins. While the oil is supposed to be checked for these harmful toxins before it is packaged.
Cod liver oil is also higher in Vitamin A than fish oil and there is always the concern that Vitamin A toxicity may be an issue if the Cod liver is not taken as directed although is taken as directed it is perfectly safe.
Fish oil can also contain some of these contaminants but it is less likely you can also purchase pharmaceutical grade fish oil which will be contaminant free!
