What are the functions and benefits of cod liver oil?

Sep 12, 2025 Source: Cainiu Health

Dr. Yu Yongchao

Introduction

Under normal circumstances, as a common nutritional supplement, fish liver oil mainly functions to supplement vitamin A, supplement vitamin D, promote calcium absorption, protect vision, and assist in enhancing immunity. When taking fish liver oil, it is important to follow the recommended dosage to avoid excessive intake that may lead to vitamin A or vitamin D toxicity.

Generally speaking, as a common nutritional supplement, cod liver oil functions and offers benefits such as supplementing vitamin A, supplementing vitamin D, promoting calcium absorption, protecting vision, and assisting in enhancing immunity. Detailed explanations are as follows:

1. Supplementing vitamin A: Cod liver oil is rich in vitamin A, which is an essential substance for maintaining healthy epithelial tissues. It is suitable for conditions caused by vitamin A deficiency, such as dry skin and dry eyes, and helps maintain normal functions of the skin and respiratory mucous membranes, reducing discomfort caused by vitamin deficiency.

2. Supplementing vitamin D: Cod liver oil contains abundant vitamin D, suitable for individuals who receive insufficient sunlight exposure or consume inadequate dietary vitamin D. It directly replenishes this nutrient in the body, helping to prevent related health problems caused by vitamin D deficiency.

3. Promoting calcium absorption: The vitamin D in cod liver oil promotes the absorption of calcium and phosphorus in the intestines, making it suitable for populations requiring focused calcium supplementation, such as children and the elderly. It helps improve calcium utilization, supports the normal development and health of bones and teeth, and reduces the risk of calcium deficiency.

4. Protecting vision: Vitamin A in cod liver oil is a key component of the photosensitive substances in visual cells. It helps prevent night blindness and relieve visual fatigue, maintaining normal visual function, especially suitable for individuals who use their eyes frequently to take moderate supplements.

5. Assisting in enhancing immunity: Both vitamin A and vitamin D play certain regulatory roles in immune system function. Taking cod liver oil in appropriate amounts can help enhance the body's resistance to harmful external substances by supplementing these two nutrients, thus supporting the immune system.

When using cod liver oil, it is important to follow the recommended dosage to avoid toxicity caused by excessive intake of vitamin A or vitamin D. The target population should be clearly identified, and it should not be taken indiscriminately as a daily health supplement.

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What are the functions and benefits of fish liver oil?

Under normal circumstances, the main functions and benefits of fish liver oil include supplementing vitamin A, supplementing vitamin D, protecting vision, promoting calcium absorption, and maintaining mucosal health. When taking fish liver oil, the dosage should be controlled according to a physician's instructions or the product label, as excessive intake may lead to vitamin A and vitamin D toxicity. It is contraindicated for individuals allergic to fish, and should be used with caution by patients with hypercalcemia or hyperphosphatemia.

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What causes diarrhea during the consumption of cod liver oil?

In general, diarrhea during the intake of cod liver oil may be caused by individual differences, excessive intake, allergic reactions, irritable bowel syndrome, chronic pancreatitis, or other similar reasons. Symptomatic treatment such as general care and medication may be needed. It is recommended to maintain a bland diet in daily life and avoid high-fat and greasy foods. Consuming warm and nourishing foods, such as rice porridge and soft noodles, may help protect the gastrointestinal tract.