Fats and oils
Cod liver oil
Also called: cod liver
Oil from cod livers with omega-3s and vitamins A and D.
- Why people take it
- Bones, immunity, joints.
- What the evidence says
- Supplies omega-3 and vitamin D.
- How it is usually taken
- Usually 5 ml (one teaspoon) or capsules a day; check total vitamin A.
- Be careful
- Contains a lot of vitamin A; do not combine with other vitamin A and avoid high doses in pregnancy.
- Medicines it can interact with
- Do not combine with other vitamin A supplements or retinoid medicines.
Other fats and oils
Common questions
What is Cod liver oil?
Oil from cod livers with omega-3s and vitamins A and D.
Why do people take Cod liver oil?
Bones, immunity, joints.
Does Cod liver oil work?
Supplies omega-3 and vitamin D.
How much Cod liver oil do people take?
Usually 5 ml (one teaspoon) or capsules a day; check total vitamin A.
Is Cod liver oil safe?
Contains a lot of vitamin A; do not combine with other vitamin A and avoid high doses in pregnancy.
Does Cod liver oil interact with medicines?
Do not combine with other vitamin A supplements or retinoid medicines.
Sources and further reading
Last reviewed 31 October 2026. Written by Satya Babu.
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