Some years ago, African-American mothers' daily routine or ritual was to give their children cod liver oil to promote and ensure good health. Most believed that this distinctive oil was extremely protective and helped to maintain wellness and prevent illness in their precious children.
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Mothers all over the country swore by it and knew it was good for their children.
Of course, their children, in many instances, swore that they did not like the unique oil’s taste, in spite of whatever their mothers thought about the benefits.
Cod liver oil, by the way, is oil that is derived from the liver of codfish.
Well, Of Course, Mother Was Right!
Cod liver oil is a wonderful nutritional supplement, which provides multiple health benefits. It is rich in nutrients such as:
Vitamin A:
Helps to maintain a healthy immune system, helps resist bacterial and viral infections and is beneficial for eyesight and healthy skin.
Vitamin D:
Helps maintain strong and healthy bones.
Omega-3 Fatty Acids:
Omega-3s have anti-inflammatory properties, which help relieve the symptoms of arthritis, improve brain function, reduce stress, prevent allergies, healthy skin, relieve asthma and help with learning and behavioral disorders. Other possible benefits are help in preventing serious diseases such cancer, diabetes, arthritis, musculoskeletal pain, kidney problems and high cholesterol. Plants and nuts are also good sources of Omega-3s, including flaxseed oil, canola oil, broccoli, cantaloupe, kidney beans, spinach, grape leaves, Chinese cabbage, cauliflower and walnuts. EPA (eicosapentaenoic acid) and DHA (docosahexanoic acid) are the most beneficial forms.
Cod liver oil is available in liquid or capsule form, thus in the capsule form, one does not have to contend with the taste. In addition, the oil is available in various taste-friendly flavors.
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Remember:
It’s important to check the label of the cod liver oil or fish oil to make sure that it states it’s free of mercury, lead, PCB and other toxins. If it doesn’t state that it’s, free of those toxins then it probably isn’t. This is particularly important for pregnant women. In addition anyone on anti-coagulant medication should take Cod liver oil only if advised by their physician.
As we know, mom is usually right. She was right years ago about our health and the need to take cod liver oil, and...
...she is right today. Because cod liver oil which has Omega 3s fatty acids, vitamin A and vitamin D is extremely beneficial to most people.
Check first with your doctor to make sure it’s appropriate for you to try it today!
By Dr. Leonard Weather, Jr., BDO Contributing Writer
In addition to serving as the 2010-2011 president of the NMA, Dr. Leonard Weather is also a gynecologist, specializing in infertility, fibroids, pelvic pain and endometriosis. Dr. Weather is a health educator, ordained minister, painter and photographer. He is the publisher of the Dr. Weather Report, a monthly healthcare eNewsletter and he has authored three inspirational poetry books and an infertility handbook.
Dr. Weather, Jr. can be reached via email at [email protected]. Please visit the NMA today!