Top Cod Liver Oil Choices

Which cod liver oil stands out?

Using cod liver oil for health support is not a modern trend. Vikings and other Norse communities traditionally took it through the winter, and there may have been good reason for that. Cod liver oil is rich in vitamin D, often called the sunshine vitamin, and it also provides vitamin A and omega-3, two nutrients important for overall health.

The top pick is Nordic Naturals Arctic Cod Liver Oil because of its strong potency, purity and orange flavor, which makes it easier to take.

Why cod liver oil may be beneficial

Cod liver oil contains omega-3, vitamin A and vitamin D, three nutrients that are vital for health but often underconsumed in a modern Western diet.

• Omega-3 may offer a wide range of benefits, including better eye and brain health and a more youthful-looking complexion. It has been shown to help lower blood pressure and triglycerides, which can reduce cardiovascular risk, while also raising HDL cholesterol. Omega-3 has also been associated with a lower risk of Alzheimer’s disease and age-related mental decline.
• Vitamin A supports eyesight and a healthy immune system. It is also important for strong bones and for reproductive health in both men and women. Many experts advise getting vitamin A from natural sources such as cod liver oil because it is unclear whether synthetic supplements deliver the same advantages.
• Vitamin D is made in the body when skin is exposed to sunlight, but many people spend much of the day indoors. That is a concern, since vitamin D helps regulate the absorption of calcium and phosphorus, which support healthy bones and teeth. It also helps the immune system function normally and may improve resistance to certain illnesses, according to the National Institutes of Health.

Key cod liver oil features

Form

Cod liver oil supplements are generally sold as either liquids or capsules.

• Liquids often contain more omega-3 and more vitamins A and D per serving. The downside is a stronger fishy taste, which is why many users mix them into strongly flavored drinks. Liquid versions also need refrigeration after opening.
• Capsules do not require refrigeration, which makes them easier to store.

Taste

Even when blended into a flavored drink, cod liver oil can still be noticeable, so many brands now offer flavored options. Mint, lemon, orange and other fruits or herbs can help cover the taste and make liquid cod liver oil easier to take. Capsules are less likely to leave a fishy aftertaste.

Sustainability

If the price is not a problem, it is best to choose cod liver oil made with sustainable practices. Many companies that follow these practices carry certification from the Marine Stewardship Council or similar groups.

Fermented

Some brands sell fermented cod liver oil. Supporters say the usual distillation process removes valuable nutrients that then have to be replaced synthetically. Others argue that fermentation can damage omega-3 fatty acids and make the oil go rancid more quickly. More solid research is needed before either side can be confirmed.

What cod liver oil typically costs

Cod liver oil capsules usually cost 20 cents to $1 per serving, while liquids tend to run 30 to 60 cents per serving. Liquids often include more servings per bottle, which can make the total purchase price higher.

Cod liver oil FAQs

How is cod liver oil different from fish oil?

A. Both products come from fish, but they are sourced differently. Cod liver oil comes only from cod, specifically from the liver, while fish oil is taken from the flesh of several fish species, including tuna, herring, mackerel and salmon. Nutritionally, fish oil provides omega-3, while cod liver oil contains omega-3 along with vitamins A and D.

Can cod liver oil cause side effects?

A. For most people, side effects are mild and usually include digestive symptoms such as fishy burps, nausea, loose stools and indigestion. It can also act as a blood thinner, so anyone already taking prescription blood thinners or anyone with high blood pressure should consult a doctor before using cod oil.

It is also not advised for pregnant women, and it may interact with some contraceptives as well as weight-loss drugs that contain orlistat.

Which cod liver oil is the best buy?

Top cod liver oil

What you need to know: One teaspoon of this orange-flavored cod oil contains more than 1,000 milligrams of omega-3.

What you’ll love: It is made from wild-caught cod sourced sustainably, making it a more environmentally friendly choice, and it leaves no fishy aftertaste.

What you should consider: It costs more per ounce than many alternatives.

Best value cod liver oil

What you need to know: These kosher-certified capsules come from a trusted brand and are free from wheat, gluten, soy and other common allergens.

What you’ll love: They are packaged in the United States and tested to ensure they are free from harmful levels of mercury, dioxins and other contaminants.

What you should consider: The soft gels are large and may be hard for some people to swallow.

Another product worth considering

What you need to know: With its lemon flavor, this liquid supplies your daily omega-3 without a strong fishy taste or fishy burps.

What you’ll love: It carries International Fish Oil Standards certification for purity and is packaged with a nitrogen flush to help preserve freshness.

What you should consider: It contains some synthetic vitamins.