Omega 3

Omega 3 - Cod liver, fish oils, vitamin D

Cod liver and fish oils are extracted from cod fish liver and is rich in vitamin D, vitamin A and omega-3. In the past it has been used to prevent and treat those suffering from rickets as well as a deficiency in vitamin D. Cod liver and fish oil is sold in different grades and will appear in the form of a pale or straw coloured substance that has a moderate flavour. Other fish oils include salmon, sardines, mackerel, herring and anchovies.

This oil can also be utilised for medicinal purposes. Brown coloured oil is the most common since it is more cost effective to produce. By 1850 Peter Moller developed his Moller Process which involved grounding the liver with water until it transformed into slurry, after which this concoction would be simmered gently until the oil comes up, and is then removed and purified.

While cod liver based lard has a fatty acid structure which is similar to most fish oil, its vitamin D and A content is higher, and about twenty percent of its composition includes the fatty acid omega 3. Cod liver based oil also has many therapeutic uses such as being applied during secondary prophylaxis follow heart attacks, and those who supplement their diets with this oil have also reported being able to alleviate depression and psoriasis. It is also said that fish oils may be used to develop body art and might also provide insulation during cold weather.

These oils have been extensively studied by researchers and it is now believed that their regular consumption can prevent a multitude of health problems, including macular degeneration, cancer and cardiac problems. Aside from cod, this oil is also extracted from albacore tuna, sharks, tilefish and swordfish. Oil extracted from cod liver is extremely versatile and can also be used for industrial purposes. In the past it was applied as a fluidic base for classical red ochre based paint, which was a popular exterior coating for outbuildings or work sites that were involved in cod fishery.

There are a variety of premium grade cod and fish oils which can be purchased from McDaid Pharmacy. These include Cleanmarine Krill Oil, Aya Omega 3 Fish Oil, Seven Seas Cod Liver Oil and Magnesium, and Lil Critters Omega 3 Gummy Fish. These supplements can be combined with your diet and may also be used as ointments or emollients.