Cod liver oil for kids is a nutritional or dietary supplement derived from the liver of the codfish. It contains essential nutrients, such as vitamin D and omega-3 fats, which help children grow and develop healthily. But since most healthy children can get all the nutrients from a well-balanced diet, feeding them supplements isn’t usually necessary. Dietary supplementation may become essential if you suspect your child’s dietary intake is insufficient or they have medical issues that interfere with digestion and absorption of nutrients. Consulting a pediatrician is necessary to know the right brand and dosage of cod liver oil suitable for your child. Read on as we tell you about the possible health benefits of cod liver oil for children and the side effects that they may cause.
What is Cod Liver Oil?
Cod liver oil is the oil extracted from cod fish’s liver. Cod is a type of fish that belongs to the genus Gadus and is a good source of nutrients such as vitamins A and D, omega-3 fatty acids, namely EPA (eicosapentaenoic acid) and DHA (docosahexaenoic acid) (1). Cod liver oil is categorized based on its method of extraction and processing. The following are the two types of cod liver oil:
Regular cod liver oil: Oil is extracted, processed, and refined at a high temperature. It is available in the form of supplements after synthetic vitamins are added to it.
Fermented cod liver oil: It is extracted without heat and is fermented for 6-12 months. It is a natural product and is taken as food.
Cod liver oil is available in oil and capsule forms. Both these forms contain 10% EPA and 10% DHA (2). This constitution profile makes it healthy and worthy of attention. But can cod liver oil be part of children’s diet?
Is It Safe To Give Cod Liver Oil To Kids?
Cod liver oil is usually safe for children when taken orally and in the right amounts (4). It can also be used externally to heal wounds, burns, and rashes. There is no recommended cod liver oil dosage for children. So, it is best to take the doctor’s opinion before giving it to them. Doctors usually prescribe cod liver oil for children only if they think that the supplement is required.
Nutritional Value of Cod Liver Oil
The table below lists the different nutrients and their value per 100g of cod liver oil (5). When taken as directed by the physician, cod liver oil can offer certain benefits to children.
What Are The Potential Benefits Of Cod Liver Oil For Kids?
Cod liver oil offers several benefits to children, some of which are mentioned below. While we learn about the benefits of cod liver oil, we must also know about any side-effects it might have.
What Are The Side Effects Of Cod Liver Oil?
The side effects of cod liver oil are usually mild. Any side-effects that the child may experience usually resolve on their own. Some of the common side-effects include (13):
Bad breath Heartburn Burps that smell fishy Loose stools Nausea
Also, severe reactions may occur if the child is allergic to seafood or the dosage is inappropriate. So, consult a doctor before starting cod liver oil supplements for your child. Children who are sensitive to cod liver oil could have (14):
Vomiting
Diarrhea
Urticaria (a kind of rash that causes itchiness and swelling, and red welts)
A combination of the symptoms mentioned above
Children having eczema and asthma might have their condition aggravated. Besides allergic reactions, the effects of an overdose of vitamins A and D could be seen in children.
An excess dose of vitamin A (> 1500μg/day) can increase the risk of bone fractures (15)
An overdose of vitamin D causes build-up of calcium in blood (hypercalcemia), which can cause nausea and vomiting, weakness, and frequent urination. Symptoms might progress to bone pain and kidney problems, such as the formation of calcium stones, or increased levels of calcium in the blood serum can lead to bone loss and fractures (16).
All said and done, cod liver oil has a smell and taste that children may not like. Here are a few tips for feeding cod liver oil to kids.
How To Make Your Child Take Cod Liver Oil?
Cod liver oil has a fishy smell and taste, which makes children reluctant to take it. Drinking a spoonful of cod liver oil as it is can be difficult. However, you can make it easier to consume.
Try cod liver oil supplements, which are available in the form of chewable tablets.
Try the flavored brands of fermented cod liver oil, where the flavor masks the fishy smell and taste.
Add it to their favorite foods or smoothies, or acidic juices made of lemon or grapefruit
Blend it with honey or sugar syrup.
Never force the children to take this oil, as they may throw up or choke on it if they find the smell or flavor repulsive. Consult your doctor immediately in the case of any side-effects.
