Cod Liver Oil
Fatty Acid
Also known as: CLO
A
Grade A💊 1-2 tsp or 2-4 capsules daily🎯 4 primary uses🔗 1 synergy⚠️ Review warnings
Levels upNutrition+50 pts
Overview
Traditional omega-3 source also providing vitamins A and D. Good winter supplement but watch vitamin A intake.
Primary Uses
Omega-3sVitamin DVitamin ATraditional health
Frequently Asked About Cod Liver Oil
How much Cod Liver Oil should I take?
The typical effective range is 1-2 tsp or 2-4 capsules daily. Individual needs vary based on age, body weight, diet, and goals — start at the lower end and adjust based on response. Always consult a healthcare provider before starting a new supplement.
When is the best time to take Cod Liver Oil?
With food. Consistency matters more than perfect timing — pick a daily anchor (e.g. with breakfast or before bed) and stick with it.
Should I take Cod Liver Oil with food?
Yes.
Does Cod Liver Oil interact with medications?
Yes — known interactions include Blood thinners and Retinoids. If you take any prescription medication, talk to your doctor or pharmacist before starting Cod Liver Oil.
What does Cod Liver Oil pair well with?
Cod Liver Oil stacks well with K2 if taking for D — these combinations either improve absorption or work synergistically toward common goals.
Who should not take Cod Liver Oil?
Cod Liver Oil should be avoided or used with caution by people with Pregnancy (high doses vitamin A). Pregnant or breastfeeding women should consult a healthcare provider before use.
What are the side effects of Cod Liver Oil?
Most people tolerate Cod Liver Oil well. The most commonly reported side effects are Fishy taste and Burps. Side effects are usually dose-dependent — lowering the dose often resolves them.
Dosage
Typical range
1-2 tsp or 2-4 capsules daily
Timing
With food
With food
Yes
Duration
Monitor vitamin A intake
Special Populations
Winter months, northern latitudes
Research & Studies
Search the literature now
We haven’t curated landmark studies for Cod Liver Oilyet — one-click into the primary literature here. PubMed (RCTs) is usually the highest-signal starting point.
Mechanism of Action
- • EPA and DHA from fish liver
- • Natural vitamin A and D
- • Traditional remedy
Evidence Quality
Evidence Grade A
Traditional source of A, D, and omega-3s
Safety & Contraindications
Serious Warnings
- • Vitamin A toxicity if combined with other A sources
Contraindications
- • Pregnancy (high doses vitamin A)
Common Side Effects
- • Fishy taste
- • Burps
Pregnancy & Breastfeeding
Low-dose OK, watch vitamin A
Liver & Kidney Notes
Vitamin A accumulates
Interactions
💊 Medications
- • Blood thinners
- • Retinoids
🧪 Supplements
- • Watch total vitamin A
🍽️ Food & Alcohol
- • No interactions
Stacking & Synergies
Pairs Well With
K2 if taking for D
Avoid Combining With
Other vitamin A sources
Best Goal Synergies
Winter wellnessTraditional health
Buying Guide
What to Look For
- • Vitamin A/D levels stated
Standardization Markers
EPA/DHAVitamin A and D content
Adulteration risk
Low
Practical Notes
- • Monitor vitamin A from all sources
- • Good winter supplement
Tags
fatty acidomega-3vitamin Avitamin D
Related Guides
In-depth guides covering Cod Liver Oil — protocols, comparisons, and use cases.
More in Fatty Acid
Other ingredients in the Fatty Acid category.
Algal Oil (Vegan DHA)
Plant-based omega-3 from microalgae. Vegan source of preformed DHA and sometimes EPA.
DHA (Docosahexaenoic Acid)
A long-chain omega-3 fatty acid critical for brain structure and function. DHA is the predominant structural fatty acid in the brain and retina.
EPA (Eicosapentaenoic Acid)
EPA is a long-chain omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acid with strong evidence supporting cardiovascular and inflammatory benefits. It is commonly used for heart health, triglyceride reduction, and cognitive support.
Fish Oil (EPA/DHA)
Marine omega-3s with cardiovascular, brain, and anti-inflammatory benefits. EPA and DHA are the bioactive forms.
Flaxseed Oil (ALA)
Plant-based omega-3 (ALA) that requires conversion to EPA/DHA. Conversion is inefficient (5-15%). Better than nothing for vegans.
GLA (Borage Oil)
Highest GLA content of any plant oil. More concentrated than evening primrose for skin and inflammation.
Last reviewed: June 2026 by the Formulate Research Team. Sources cited above; methodology and scoring criteria published here.
Cite this page
Formulate Research Team. (2026, June). Cod Liver Oil — Evidence-Based Supplement Guide. Formulate Supplement Encyclopedia. https://app.formulate-health.app/learning/supplements/cod-liver-oil
Educational content based on published research and our scoring methodology. Not medical advice — consult a qualified healthcare provider before starting, stopping, or changing supplements, especially if you take medications, are pregnant, or have a medical condition.