Why don’t doctors recommend taking cod liver oil?
Cod liver oil is a supplement rich in vitamins A and D and omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids. While cod liver oil is popular for its multiple health benefits, doctors don\’t recommend long-term supplementation of cod liver oil, according to new research. In this article, we’ll break down four areas why doctors don’t recommend cod liver oil.
Cod liver oil can cause vitamin A poisoning
Cod liver oil is an important source of vitamin A. However, taking too much vitamin A from cod liver oil may lead to vitamin A poisoning. In severe cases, vitamin A poisoning may cause symptoms such as headache, nausea, vomiting, dizziness, dry skin, and bone pain.
Cod liver oil may interact with medications you are taking
Cod liver oil may interact with some medications you are taking, affecting their efficacy. For example, cod liver oil may make certain medicines, such as weight loss pills and antidepressants, less effective. In addition, cod liver oil may increase the effectiveness of certain medicines, such as blood thinners (such as warfarin), thereby increasing the risk of bleeding. Therefore, any medications and supplements should be taken with the advice of your doctor.
The intake of cod liver oil needs to be carefully controlled
The intake of cod liver oil needs to be carefully controlled. Since cod liver oil contains large amounts of vitamins A and D, excessive intake may lead to vitamin A and D toxicity. For example, the safe upper limit for excessive daily intake of vitamin A is 3000IU (international units), while the safe upper limit for excessive daily intake of vitamin D is 4000IU. Therefore, it is necessary to strictly limit the daily intake of cod liver oil and use it under the guidance of a doctor.
Cod liver oil may have potential risks for pregnant women and children
Although cod liver oil is safe for most people, there are potential risks for pregnant women and children. Pregnant women and children are relatively small and consume relatively low daily nutritional intake, so their risk of excessive intake of vitamins A and D is also relatively high. In addition, excessive consumption of cod liver oil may increase the risk of congenital heart disease in pregnant women and children.
Summary
In summary, although cod liver oil is a supplement rich in many nutrients, it does come with some potential risks. Doctors do not recommend long-term consumption of cod liver oil, especially for pregnant women and children. If you need to take cod liver oil, please consult your doctor first and follow the recommended usage and dosage requirements.
