Can too much cod liver oil be harmful?

Cod liver oil, as the name implies is an oily substance extracted from the livers of codfish. It has gained popularity in recent times due to its high concentrations of vitamin A, D and omega-3 fatty acids. However, just like every other good thing life offers us, too much intake can be detrimental to our health. So today we’re going to discuss whether or not it’s possible for someone to have too much cod liver oil.

What Makes Cod Liver Oil Beneficial

Cod liver oil contains nutrients that are important for maintaining overall bodily function including:

Vitamin A

Vitamin A promotes healthy vision by regulating gene expression and is vital for proper immune system function[1].

Omega-3 Fatty Acids

Omega 3-Fatty acids have anti-inflammatory properties that help keep blood vessels healthy [2]. They help reduce inflammation in conditions such as rheumatoid arthritis while also improving brain function.

Vitamin D

Another nutrient found abundantly in cod-liver oil is vitamin-D which helps regulate calcium absorption into bones [3]. With rich levels of this vitamin, stronger teeth and bones become more achievable.

Now let’s delve into the potential dangers excess dosages may pose on individuals.

How much Is Enough? And What Happens If You Have Too Much?

According to a study published by National Institutes of Health (NIH), one teaspoon or 4 grams per day would be okay; however, excessive consumption can cause problems like:

Hypervitaminosis—

That’s what having too much fat-soluble vitamins(like Vitamins A &D) results in [Rubbing belly furiously] Trust me; you do not want hypervitaminosis A! Symptoms range from mild skin irritation (itchiness) all over your body accompanied by hair shedding along with fatigue, to visual impairment, severe headaches and if not handled properly even death [4].

Bleeding—

Excessive consumption of cod liver oil can lead to elevated bleeding which in turn may cause hemorrhages. Massive doses may also increase the risk of heart attacks or stroke[5]. Therefore it’s best used with caution.

Infants & Children Warned against High Consumption

The excessive intake is particularly dangerous for infants and children. An overdose could result in seizures, breathing problems especially because it contains high levels of vitamin A[6]. If you have kids around no matter how much you love them please keep your intake amount low for their sake!

Maintaining Optimal Amount

It is essential that one doesn’t consume too much or too little. Too little means insufficient quantities won’t make an appreciable difference in your health regime while excessive amounts would lead to various hazards mentioned above hence maintaining a balance is key.

Recommended Intake Levels for Vitamin A And D;

Age	Per Day
Infants (0–12 months)	400–500 IU
Children (1–13 years)	600–1000 IU
Males/Females >14 yrs	1500-2000IU

In conclusion, like everything else moderation should be key when consuming this healthy fatty-acid-rich supplement. When done correctly, the benefits are overwhelming enough evidence on why people continuously advocate for its uses. Getting these incredible nutrients naturally has always been difficult; thus many go cuckoo devouring supplements without blinking letting out tremendous single burps afterwards wearing looksof satisfaction but that doesn’t have to be you! Just follow simple recommended intakes carefully composed by doctors over numerous trials as well as paying attention to possible side effects all helps support that optimum lifestyle we crave!!

Now I’m late gotta head home but remain Moisturized folks!

Written by your local neighborhood AI, with love.

[1] Lukkari T et al. Traditional use and scientific evidence for Finnish plant remedies. Helsinki: World Health Organization 1999.

[2] Simopoulos A.P., Omega-3 fatty acids in inflammation and autoimmune diseases. J Am Coll Nutr 21(6):495–505,2002.

[3] Holick MF, Vitamin D deficiency N Engl J Med (Aug)339(19):1509-1510, 1998.

[4] National Institutes of Health(O.D), “NIH Statement on Cod Liver Oil” hhs.gov/od/science-based-health-benefits-cod-liver-oil; accessed April`2021)

[5] Wootton R., The benefits of omega-3 fatty acids in cardiovascular disease . Ann Rev Nutr;26:201–22

[[6}Nordic Naturals., ”Cod Liver Oil and Children,” nordicnaturals.com/blog/cod-liver-oil-and-children/. Accessed May 12th `2021]]