Few natural supplements stand as tall as cod liver oil, dubbed as "golden elixir" brimming with nutritional benefits for women across all life stages.
Derived from the livers of codfish, this ancient remedy has been treasured for centuries for its rich reservoir of essential nutrients, including omega-3 fatty acids, vitamins A and D, and other vital compounds.
As analysts observe, cod liver oil (CLO) is "a nutritional treasure trove with a rich history of health benefits." Beyond its conventional role in providing a balance in diet and nutrition, CLO has garnered attention for its profound impact on women's health.
Let's explore the merits of cod liver oil nutrition and its beneficial advantages, especially for women.
Understanding Cod Liver Oil: Nature's Treasure Trove
Some observers dub cod liver oil as "the golden elixir for health", packed with nutrients crucial for women's health, making it a cornerstone of holistic wellness.
In a report by the UK-based Health and Food Supplements Information Service (HSIS), a communication service providing accurate and balanced information about vitamins, minerals, and other food supplements for the health professionals and media working in the diet and nutrition niche, discussions were published on the benefits of this so-called "golden elixir".
HSIS reported that CLO is a nutrient-rich source containing high levels of vitamins A and D and omega-3 essential fatty acids eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA).
These fatty acids exist in the body and serve varied functions with myriad health benefits, including lowering triglyceride levels in the blood, enhancing heart health, lowering blood pressure, supporting brain function, and maintaining eye health.
EPA may also help prevent blood clots by allowing blood to flow freely around the arteries, thereby maintaining circulation and enhancing heart health.
While omega-3 fatty acids promote suppleness, DHA is vital for infant development, especially premature infants. DHA is also reported to encourage brain development throughout childhood and is stressed as necessary for early visual and cognitive development.
For the rundown of CLO's benefits, especially for women, let's get on with the list.
1. Cod Liver Oil Spurs Fertility Enhancement
New studies by the National Center for Biotechnology Information (NCBI) observed that women approaching advanced maternal age have inferior natural and assisted fertility results. At the same time, the risk of chromosomal abnormalities and congenital disabilities rises with age.
NCBI revealed effective and practical strategies for delaying ovarian ageing or improving oocyte quality. According to the NCBI research, "omega-3 fatty acids may provide an effective and practical avenue for delaying ovarian ageing and improving oocyte quality at advanced maternal age."
2. Cod Liver Oil Helps Manage Hormonal Balance
Hormonal imbalances can wreak havoc on women's health, leading to symptoms such as irregular periods, mood swings, and acne. omega-3 fatty acids aid in stabilizing hormone levels, as NCBI research highlights.
"Clinical trials suggest that omega-3 fatty acids improve the outcome of depression. This study aimed to evaluate the association between intake of cod liver oil, rich in omega-3 fatty acids, and high levels of symptoms of depression and anxiety in the general population," reports its new studies.
From The Hordaland Health Study, a population-based cross-sectional health survey from Norway that included 21,835 participants aged 40-49 and 70-74 years, CLO consumption was observed among the survey participants.
The findings showed that CLO users were significantly less likely to experience depressive symptoms than non-users, considering variables which included age, gender, smoking habits, coffee and alcohol consumption, physical activity, and education.
These studies discovered that the prevalence of severe depressive symptoms decreased with increased and continued duration of CLO use (0-12 months).
3. Pregnancy Support
Pregnancy is a transformative journey marked by profound changes in a woman's body. CLO, rich in vitamins A and D, offers invaluable support during this crucial period. The American Pregnancy Association (APA) acknowledges the role of omega-3 fatty acids in fetal development, recommending their inclusion in the maternal diet. CLO, containing omega-3s and vitamin D, becomes a valuable supplement to support a healthy pregnancy and fetal development. "Omega-3 fatty acids have positive effects on the pregnancy itself. Increased intake of EPA and DHA has been shown to prevent pre-term labour and delivery, lower the risk of preeclampsia, and may increase birth weight," APA said.
For renowned journalist Mark Kurlansky, book author of "Cod: A Biography Of The Fish That Changed The World", his reports chronicled widespread health programs by the British Ministry of Food during World War I and World War II, including free CLO supplements for pregnant and breastfeeding women, toddlers, and those in the elderly and middle-age brackets.
Reports said that the supplements were observed to have produced "the healthiest children England had ever seen, despite bombings and rationing, (the British government) continued the program until 1971." Meanwhile, the NHS reported that "vitamin D is essential throughout pregnancy and while breastfeeding" and that the human body needs this vitamin to maintain health for the heart, bones, and teeth. Still, a word of caution from the experts: "Cod liver oil may help pregnant women get adequate amounts of vitamin D. However, some experts have cautioned against taking cod liver oil supplements during pregnancy because high vitamin A levels can harm the unborn baby."
4. Postpartum Recovery
The postpartum period is a time of adjustment and healing for new mothers. CLO aids in postpartum recovery by replenishing essential nutrients, supporting tissue repair, and alleviating inflammation.
A report by the Office of Disease Prevention and Health Promotion underscored that the postpartum period is a "special time, and adopting healthy dietary patterns during this life stage has important health benefits for moms and babies."
Many mothers face challenges that may impact their access to healthy dietary patterns and breastfeeding goals, so supplementary nutrition would be helpful to meet these requirements.
5. Healthy Aging for Women
As women age, the quest for excellent health becomes increasingly important. With supplement nutrition's blend of omega-3s and vitamins, findings have shown their potential in promoting healthy ageing.
Age UK data recommends supplement intake, especially for older women, who are more likely than men to experience conditions such as osteoporosis and cognitive decline in later life. Cod liver oil supports bone density, mental function, and heart health, empowering women to embrace their golden years with vitality and vigour. The organization informs that "omega-3 fatty acids may protect the brain, for example, from shrinking and perhaps from cognitive decline. In Oxford, we have found that the beneficial effects of B vitamins on the brain are enhanced in people with good omega-3 status."
Conclusion:
In conclusion, cod liver oil has the potential to be a beacon of health for women, which may be a potent factor in incurring health benefits across various life stages.
Adequate and balanced nutrition has remarkable benefits for women's health, whether enhancing fertility and hormonal balance or supporting pregnancy, healthy ageing, and postpartum recovery.
True enough, by incorporating this natural supplement into their daily regimen, women can embark on a journey towards optimal health and vitality, reaping bountiful rewards of holistic well-being.
Let's embrace the power of adequate nutrition and pave the way for a healthier, happier future for women everywhere.
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