Cod liver oil has been used for generations as a natural source of nourishment. long before omega-3 supplements became popular, families around the world relied on cod liver oil for its concentrated combination of EPA, DHA, and naturally occurring vitamins A and D.

Today, cod liver oil remains one of the most respected traditional supplements simple, nutrient dense, and highly bioavailable.

What Is Cod Liver Oil?

Cod liver oil is a nutrient-rich oil extracted from the livers of Atlantic cod. While regular fish oil comes from the body tissues of various fish, cod liver oil contains both omega-3 fatty acids and naturally occurring fat-soluble vitamins, making it nutritionally distinct.

Cod liver oil naturally provides:

• DHA (Docosahexaenoic Acid) – supports brain, eyes, and nervous system

• EPA (Eicosapentaenoic Acid) – supports overall wellness and balanced inflammation

• Vitamin A – essential for skin, vision, immune health

• Vitamin D – essential for bones, calcium metabolism, and immune support

This combination is difficult to find in other supplements.

Why Cod Liver Oil Is Different from Regular Fish Oil

Fish oil supplements generally provide EPA and DHA, but they do not naturally include vitamins A or D. Cod liver oil does.

Cod Liver Oil Provides:

• Omega-3 EPA

• Omega-3 DHA

• Vitamin A

• Vitamin D

Benefits of Cod Liver Oil 

1. Natural Source of Omega-3 Fatty Acids

EPA and DHA are essential omega-3 fats that support:

• Brain and cognitive health

• Eye health

• Heart and cardiovascular health

• General wellness

Cod liver oil is one of the oldest and most natural ways to obtain these fatty acids.

2. Supports Bone and Immune Health with Vitamin D

Vitamin D plays an important role in:

• Calcium absorption

• Bone and teeth maintenance

• Immune system support

Because many people have limited sun exposure, cod liver oil becomes a simple way to maintain consistent vitamin D intake.

3. Rich in Vitamin A for Skin, Vision, and Immune Function

Vitamin A supports:

• Skin integrity

• Eye function

• Immune health

Cod liver oil naturally contains vitamin A in a bioavailable form.

4. Supports Overall Wellness and Daily Vitality

Many individuals take cod liver oil as part of a long term wellness routine. Its combination of healthy fats and fat-soluble vitamins makes it a comprehensive daily supplement for general health.

Who Can Benefit from Cod Liver Oil?

Cod liver oil is suitable for adults who want:

• A natural source of omega 3s

• Additional vitamins A and D

• Nutrient support during winter

• General wellness support

• A traditional, whole-food–derived supplement

It’s especially popular among individuals who prefer forms of omega-3 derived from natural, minimally processed sources.

How to Choose a High Quality Cod Liver Oil Supplement

Look for:

• Wild-caught Atlantic cod

• Purified, molecularly distilled oil

• Naturally preserved vitamins A and D (non-synthetic when possible)

• Third-party testing for purity

• Low oxidation levels (TOTOX score)

• No artificial colors or preservatives

• Softgels with minimal additives

High quality cod liver oil should be fresh, clean, and free of contaminants.

Cod Liver Oil vs. Regular Fish Oil

Cod liver oil is more nutrient-rich, while fish oil is often used when someone wants higher EPA/DHA without added vitamins.

Cod liver oil has been used for centuries and for good reason. It provides omega-3 fatty acids along with vitamins A and D in one naturally balanced supplement. Whether used for general wellness, nutritional support, or traditional health practices, cod liver oil remains one of the most trusted and complete sources of marine-based nutrients.