Contrary to prevalent belief, the oil is not formed by the fish themselves. Instead, the Omega-3 fatty acids are accumulated from the consumption of microalgae. The usual consumers are commonly herrings and sardines. These fish are eaten by predatory fish, such as mackerel, flounder and salmon. This causes the predatory fish to have a high level of Omega-3 fatty acids. This is due to the effects of biomagnification. In this case, they eat fish that are already stuffed with the substance.

Vegetarian versions are also presented, which are basically pills containing the same nutrients except that they're made from microalgae instead.

Fish oil has had a long an illustrious history. It has been dunkwwtaken in the middle Ages in Europe, primarily in northern England, Scotland and Ireland. Originally, it was used for more practical purposes, such as for fuel and leather softeners. The first indication of fish oil curative properties was its use in animal feed. Farmers were puzzled by the glossy coats of the animals after drinking fish oil mixed with their food. It wasn't long before people begin taking fish oil to rub on aches and sores on their skin.

During the 1700's, fish oil consumption was considered an accepted healing for rheumatism. A German study conducted in that era found out that it was successful in treating rickets, a rheumatic disease. although it was not known back then, the oil had high levels of Vitamin D, a nutrient that is absent in the patients of rickets. By the 1800's, the taste and quality have improved, thanks to steam processing, and this improved the popularity of the substance.

Fish oil's place in history was cemented when doctors finally gave official recognition in the nutritional importance of fish oil and its Omega-3 fatty acids constituent. This caused a boom in the demand of cod liver oil, until it had to be imported from Iceland during the war when the fishing business was disrupted. During World War Two, while many families faced hardship and bombings, the babies born during the time were healthiest babies ever.

Fish oil has now been accepted as a daily supplement by most nations and has been in the forefront of medical science. The Louisiana state University has conducted study on the effectiveness of it helping with Alzheimer's. The Orygen study Centre of Melbourne says that cod liver oil helps with schizophrenia. Even the American Heart Association and the Canadian Medical Association Journal have given their praise to it.

You'll have nothing to lose if you swallow a portion of cod liver oil daily. It's low in sodium and will not initiate any ill effect to high-blood pressure patients. But, beware! It has 1967 calories per serving and is high in saturated fat and cholesterol. Do not over consume this if you're watching your weight.