Norwegian Cod Liver Oil is a high-quality fish oil supplement featuring oils derived from the livers of fresh cod fish found in cold waters near Norway. Each two-softgel serving provides 170 mg of omega-3 essential fatty acid (EFA) eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and 250 mg of docosahexaenoic acid (DHA), plus a remarkable 4,000 IU of vitamin A and 500 IU of vitamin D.

Omega-3 EFAs are polyunsaturated “good” fats found in oil from cold-water fish (including cod) or in seeds of flax and other plants. They’re classified as “essential” because your body needs them for proper health, yet cannot produce them on it own. They must be obtained through diet or supplementation.

A growing number of studies indicate that omega-3 EFAs play a part in cardiovascular wellness. Omega-3 EFAs are believed to help maintain healthy cholesterol levels, blood pressure and heartbeat. They’re also believed to promote healthy blood consistency, which may contribute to healthy circulation. The American Heart Association recommends consuming fatty fish at least twice a week, or that omega-3 EFA’s be obtained through regular supplementation, for heart health protection.

Omega-3 EFAs are also known to contribute to neurological, or brain, health. Nearly 60 percent of the human brain is composed of structural fat, a third of which is docosahexaenoic acid (DHA). DHA is essential for the proper growth and development of the infant brain, and appears to affect function throughout one’s lifetime. Research shows that low levels of this important fatty acid are connected to increased incidence of mood, personality and behavioral disorders.

Because omega-3 EFA’s can be converted into anti-inflammatory substances (prostaglandins and leukotrines), they’re also believed to provide joint support, promoting flexibility, mobility and potential pain relief.