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There are many health benefits of taking cod liver oil. This healthy oil is packed with omega 3 fatty acids and is a natural source of vitamin A and vitamin D. Cod liver oil contains more vitamin A and vitamin D per weight than any other food on the planet.

One question to ask is, "How pure is your cod liver oil?" The main concern is if there are any contaminants in your oil. To ensure purity, any cod liver oil entering North America must pass standards set forth by the AOAC (Association of Analytical Communities). The AOAC is a non-profit organization whose goal is to ensure the accuracy of analytical results on various substances.

Any cod liver oil entering North America has to meet strict AOAC standards for freshness, potency and purity by an independent, FDA-registered laboratory. These pure cod liver oils must be free of any detectable mercury, cadmium, lead, PCB's and dozens of other contaminants.

To protect cod liver oil from light, it's packaged in dark glass bottles. Some manufacturers will even replace the air in the bottle with nitrogen to avoid any oxidative damage to the oil.

Cod liver oil is high in vitamin D. One teaspoon of cod liver oil may contain up to 12,000 iu of vitamin D. Vitamin D if a very important vitamin. It helps your body metabolize calcium and phosphorus. These 2 elements help your body create strong healthy bones.

Your body can make vitamin D from sun exposure. Thirty minutes in the sun for half an hour can allow your body to create up to 12,000 iu of vitamin D.

If you spend a lot of time in the sun a lot and you're also taking vitamin D supplements (including cod liver oil), there's a possibility you may suffer an overdose of vitamin D. Vitamin D is a fat-soluble vitamin. This means any excess vitamin D is not eliminated right way. Any excess is stored in your fatty tissues and liver. If you're taking cod liver oil and you're also exposed to the sun, there's a possibility you may be getting too much vitamin D in your body. One teaspoon of cod liver oil can contain up to 400 iu of vitamin D.

The only way to know your vitamin D levels is by getting your blood check by your doctor. Symptoms of vitamin D overdose includes nausea, vomitting, and constipation.

Cod liver oil also contains vitamin A. Recent medical reports suggest pregnant women and women planning to become pregnant avoid high levels of vitamin A to avoid birth defects. One teaspoon of cod liver oil can contain 700 - 1200 iu of vitamin A. The recommended daily allowance set forth by the National Institue of Medicine for adults is 700 - 900 iu per day.

Cod liver oil contains omega 3 fatty acids. Omega 3 fatty acids have been shown to reduce your risk of clots by making your blood thinner. This may affect any medications you take for high blood pressure, anticoagulants, and any heart medications. Consult your doctor before taking cod liver oil to see if it will affect any medications your taking.

This oil has many benefits for you. Safe and intelligent use will prevent any side effects from cod liver oil and provide you with the health benefits you seek.