Cod liver oil side effects

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Side Effects of Cod Liver Oil: A Comprehensive Review

Introduction to Cod Liver Oil and Its Uses

Cod liver oil, rich in omega-3 fatty acids, vitamin A, and vitamin D, is widely used for its potential health benefits, including anti-inflammatory properties and cardiovascular health improvement. However, like any supplement, it is essential to understand its potential side effects.

Gastrointestinal and Cardiovascular Side Effects

Cod liver oil has been studied for its potential to reduce the need for non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) in rheumatoid arthritis (RA) patients. While it showed promise in reducing NSAID requirements, no significant differences in side effects were observed between the cod liver oil and placebo groups, indicating that cod liver oil does not exacerbate gastrointestinal or cardiovascular issues commonly associated with NSAIDs .

Toxic Effects and Organic Changes

Historical studies have shown that high doses of cod liver oil can lead to toxic effects and regressive organic changes. Experiments on animals indicated a decrease in red blood corpuscles and histological changes in various organs, suggesting potential toxicity at therapeutic doses . This highlights the importance of adhering to recommended dosages to avoid adverse effects.

Mild Side Effects in Clinical Trials

In a large-scale trial investigating the effects of cod liver oil on preventing SARS-CoV-2 infection and other respiratory infections, participants reported only low-grade side effects. This suggests that, at standard dosages, cod liver oil is generally well-tolerated .

Non-Severe Adverse Effects in Rheumatoid Arthritis Treatment

In a pilot study involving RA patients, cod liver oil was associated with non-severe adverse effects in a small number of participants. These effects were not severe enough to outweigh the benefits reported by the majority of patients, who experienced significant reductions in symptoms such as morning stiffness and joint pain .

Conclusion

Cod liver oil, when taken at recommended dosages, appears to be well-tolerated with primarily mild side effects. However, high doses can lead to toxic effects and significant organic changes. It is crucial for users to adhere to recommended dosages and consult healthcare providers to mitigate potential risks. Overall, cod liver oil remains a beneficial supplement for many, provided it is used responsibly.

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Most relevant research papers on this topic

Prevention of covid-19 and other acute respiratory infections with cod liver oil supplementation, a low dose vitamin D supplement: quadruple blinded, randomised placebo controlled trial

Cod liver oil supplementation in winter did not reduce the incidence of SARS-CoV-2 infection, serious covid-19, or other acute respiratory infections compared to placebo.

RCTLarge Human TrialRigorous Journal

2022·

45citations

·S. H. Brunvoll et al.

Cod liver oil (n-3 fatty acids) as an non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug sparing agent in rheumatoid arthritis.

Cod liver oil supplements containing n-3 fatty acids can help reduce daily NSAID requirement by >30% in rheumatoid arthritis patients without affecting clinical parameters or side-effects.

RCTRigorous JournalHighly Cited

2008·

166citations

·B. Galarraga et al.

EFFECTS OF COD-LIVER OIL ON BASAL METABOLISM AND ON THE THYROID LAND

Cod-liver oil can cause toxic effects and regressive organic changes in animals, with no mention of thyroid gland.

1934·

4citations

·T. C. Sherwood et al.

Effect of cod liver oil on symptoms of rheumatoid arthritis

Cod liver oil can effectively reduce morning stiffness, painful and swollen joints, and pain intensity in rheumatoid arthritis patients, with good tolerability and no severe adverse effects.

Non-RCT

2002·

16citations

·J. Gruenwald et al.

Antidepressant and anxiolytic effects of cod liver oil in rats.

Cod liver oil has antidepressant and anti-anxiety effects in rats, increasing locomotion and reducing anxiety.

Non-RCTAnimal Study

2013·

4citations

·T. Perveen et al.

The effect of cod liver oil in two populations with low and high intake of dietary fish.

Cod liver oil supplementation improves serum lipids and platelets, potentially reducing thrombosis in both low and high fish consumption populations.

Non-RCT

2009·

12citations

·T. Simonsen et al.

Fatty acids from marine lipids: Biological activity, formulation and stability

Cod-liver oil contains n-3 PUFAs, which have various biological effects and can be used as dietary supplements, pharmaceutical excipients, and enhancers for drug permeation through skin and oral mucosa.

2016·

28citations

·T. Loftsson et al.

Partial normalization by dietary cod-liver oil of increased microvascular albumin leakage in patients with insulin-dependent diabetes and albuminuria.

Dietary cod-liver oil lowers the elevated transcapillary escape rate of albumin in patients with insulin-dependent diabetes and albuminuria, independently of its effect on blood pressure, possibly by decreasing vascular permeability.

Highly Cited

1989·

99citations

·T. Jensen et al.

Hepatoprotective effects of cod liver oil against sodium nitrite toxicity in rats

Cod liver oil protects against sodium nitrite-induced liver damage by reducing oxidative stress, blocking MCP-1, restoring mitochondrial function, and reducing DNA fragmentation.

Non-RCTAnimal StudyRigorous Journal

2013·

57citations

·M. Salama et al.

Effect on blood lipids and haemostasis of a supplement of cod-liver oil, rich in eicosapentaenoic and docosahexaenoic acids, in healthy young men.

A daily cod-liver oil supplement can improve blood lipids, platelet function, and haemostasis in healthy young men, but may prolong bleeding time and increase antithrombin III levels.

Non-RCTHighly Cited

1981·

350citations

·T. Sanders et al.

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