Must have Medicine In Your Baby's Medicine Cabinet

For centuries and through many civilisations, cod liver oil’s nutritional benefits have been highly acclaimed. Nutritional supplements derived from the liver of cod fish are recommended for use by adults and children for their health and nutritional benefits. Touted to be rich in nutrients that can even help treat depression, this supplement, which sold as capsules or in liquid flavoured or unflavoured variations, is a must-have in your baby’s medicine cabinet and this is why…

 A rich source of vitamin A and D  

Some vitamins cannot be synthesised by the body hence the need for supplements. Among the most vital especially for newborn and growing babies is the ‘sunshine’ vitamin also known as vitamin D, which is essential for proper growth of bones and helping prevent rickets among other bone and autoimmune diseases.

Lack of vitamin D also increases a child’s risk of frequently getting sick. The best way to get Vitamin D is exposure to the sun’s rays early in the morning or late evening but in most European countries, which face long and hard winters, the consumption of cod liver oil has been has been a life-saving supplement. Cod liver oil is also rich in Vitamin A which helps prevent eye disorders, helps fight cancer and supports proper brain, testicular and ovarian function.

A rich source of Omega 3 and Omega 6 fats 

The human body is able to manufacture fatty acids except Omega 3 and Omega 6. This family of fatty acids is essential for proper neurological function, cell membrane maintenance, hormone production and mood regulation, hence their name – essential fatty acids. Omega 6 fatty acids are easy to access as they are found in most vegetable oils such as sunflower, corn and soy bean oil.

Due to this, many families end up consuming too much Omega 6 fatty acids at the expense of Omega 3 fatty acids. The imbalance between the two can lead to inflammatory diseases such as arthritis. Doctors advise on balance of the two to the ratio of 2:1 – that is two portions of Omega 3 to one portion of Omega 6 for a healthier lifestyle.

Note: While many people associate cod liver oil supplement with children, adults also stand to benefit from it. It is recommended for people suffering from arthritis, diabetes, ear infections, high blood pressure, allergies and asthma.

Published in July 2016