Are cod liver oil and vitamin AD the same thing?

Fish liver oil and vitamin AD share certain similarities in composition and function, but they are not entirely the same. Both contain vitamin A and vitamin D and play a positive role in the prevention and treatment of deficiencies in these vitamins, such as rickets and night blindness. The main differences are as follows: 1. **Content Difference**: Fish liver oil contains relatively lower levels of vitamins A and D. In contrast, some types of vitamin AD preparations may have significantly higher levels of vitamin D than fish liver oil, better meeting the needs of different populations. 2. **Composition**: In addition to vitamins A and D, fish liver oil may contain other nutrients derived from fish, such as unsaturated fatty acids and cholesterol. Vitamin AD preparations, on the other hand, are compound formulations containing only vitamins A and D, with relatively simpler compositions. However, excipients such as vegetable oil may be included. 3. **Source of Extraction**: Fish liver oil is extracted from the livers of deep-sea fish such as sharks and cod, whereas vitamin AD is typically a synthetically produced combination preparation. When using fish liver oil or vitamin AD preparations, medical advice should be followed. Extra caution is required for special populations such as children and pregnant women. A balanced diet rich in foods containing vitamins A and D, such as carrots, green peppers, potatoes, mangoes, cantaloupes, and cherries, should also be maintained to support overall health.