You may have memories of your grandmother insisting that fish oil is the fix for whatever ails you. And, like most of us, you probably brushed it off and focused on getting nutrition from fruits and vegetables, or a multivitamin instead. It turns out that fish oil – specifically cod liver oil – really is the superfood our ancestors claimed it to be. And although adults can benefit from it, cod liver oil for kids has just as much importance! Learn more in this blog post.
Babies, children, and adolescents can greatly benefit from using cod liver oil. Here are just a few of the reasons why you should try cod liver oil for kids.
4 Reasons to Try Cod Liver Oil for Kids
01. Naturally Occurring Vitamins A and D
There are few foods in the world that contain naturally occurring vitamins A and D. One of them is – you guessed it – cod liver oil! So, what makes it important? Well, in the not-too-distant past, before milk was fortified with vitamin D, many children suffered from crippling bone conditions due to a lack of vitamin D in their diets. The prevalence of children with soft bone deformities around the world (and in the U.S. prior to 1950) is what brought the use of cod liver oil for kids to the forefront.
Researchers discovered a link between cod liver oil consumption and fewer cases of bone conditions, so giving it to children became a normal routine, just like brushing teeth or taking a vitamin. These days, childhood bone conditions have become sporadic due to vitamin D being added to common foods like milk, cereal, yogurts and juice. As more people develop allergies to dairy and wheat, they are unable to eat these fortified foods. Also in many developing countries the problem is still widespread due to the lack of fortified foods being available).
02. Brain and Vision Support
Cod liver oil is also naturally high in omega 3 essential fatty acids, which are often recommended by natural health experts for their ability to promote healthy brain development and healthy vision. Omega 3s are commonly prescribed by doctors for use during pregnancy for these same reasons that have been noted in several studies. The real winners here are the omega 3s known as EPA (eicosapentaenoic acid) and DHA (docosahexaenoic acid). EPA supports the heart and a healthy immune system, while DHA more specifically, supports the brain, eyes, and central nervous system.
03. Mood Support
Increased intake of DHA and EPA may provide support for children who have recurring feelings of sadness or have trouble focusing in school. If you suspect your child’s moodiness is related to a medical issue, talk to a physician first before adding anything to their diet.
04. Free of Mercury and Environmental Toxins
One way to add vitamins and Omega 3s to your child’s diet is through food – specifically from cold-water, fatty fish, but eating seafood doesn’t come without risk. Often the fish we eat to get these essential nutrients may contain environmental toxins such as mercury, which should not be ingested if at all possible as it could interfere with your child’s (or your own) developing brain and body. Choosing a high quality cod liver oil from a reputable manufacturer virtually eliminates that risk, because they are tested for purity during processing.
Shop for high-quality fish oil supplements, including cod liver oil, for the whole family from Natural Healthy Concepts!
Tips for Getting Your Child to Take It
- Try a flavored liquid cod liver oil supplement for kids, such as lemon or strawberry. The recommended serving size for children is one half (1/2) teaspoon once or twice daily at mealtime.
- Add liquid cod liver oil to a smoothie or blend it into juice.
- Try mixing lemon flavored liquid cod liver oil into a yummy salad.
- Or try chewable supplements of cod liver oil for kids.
Has your family tried cod liver oil for kids? Tell us about your experiences in the comments below!
