Many of us get confused between fish oil and cod liver oil which are both essential nutrient supplements. Though both are derived from fish, they are very much different from each other. Fish oil and cod liver oil are intended for curing various conditions. Let us now have a look on the differences between these two oils.
Cod liver oil is extracted from the liver of cod fish whereas fish oil is extracted from the tissues (not specific) of any oily fish. Cod liver oil contains omega-3 fatty acids including EPA (Eicosapentaenoic acid) and DHA (Docosahexanoic acid). It also contains high levels of vitamin A and vitamin D. However, fish oil only has these two specific omega-3 fatty acids but do not contain vitamins A and D. Even the amounts of these omega-3 fatty acids in fish oil and cod liver oil differ, the fish oil has higher levels of these fatty acids when compared to cod liver oil. Another significant difference between them is that cod liver oil has a higher ratio of DHA to EPA where as fish oil has a higher ratio of EPA to DHA. It has been known that when you compare a similar sized capsule of fish oil and cod liver oil, the fish oil has twice the amounts of EPA and DHA than that in cod liver oil.
As cod liver oil is rich in vitamins A and D, it is mostly recommended for people suffering from the deficiency of these vitamins. It enables to maintain the health of skin, eyes and joints. However, it also ensures perfect health of cardiovascular system and nervous system because of the adequate amounts of omega-3 fatty acid, DHA. The EPA involves in prevention of inflammation in your body. Both cod liver oil and fish oil supplements have their significant role in maintaining the body’s health.