Joint discomfort can be challenging and impact your daily life – restricting movement, preventing you from engaging in your favorite sports or activities, and generally making the process of moving about quite a pain. People often turn to over-the-counter medication and supplements to get relief.
In previous articles, we’ve broken down how different omega-3 supplements compare, like fish oil, krill oil, and salmon oil. Cod liver oil is a common supplement that people take for joint health. However, is it the best option out there? In this blog post, we will explain why green-lipped mussel oil is a better choice for your health than cod liver oil.
Let’s explore the distinctions between green-lipped mussel oil and cod liver oil:
Natural Soothing Properties
One of the biggest reasons green-lipped mussel oil is recommended for joint health is for its natural soothing properties. Osteoarthritis is a chronic condition that causes discomfort in the joints. Green-lipped mussel oil aids in mitigating the discomfort associated with this condition, making it an effective solution for joint support.
Cod liver oil does not have these same natural soothing properties. While it may contain Omega-3 fatty acids recognized for their soothing effects, it doesn’t match the effectiveness of green-lipped mussel oil. On average, cod liver oil contains 31.91 +/- 1.83 grams of n-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids (n-3 PUFAs) per 100 grams of oil, and 16.59 +/- 7.48 grams of n-3 PUFAs per 100 grams of solids. In addition to these essential fatty acids, cod liver oil also contains vitamins A and D.
Compare this to green-lipped mussel oil. According to research, the total lipid extract (TLE) from Green Lipped Mussels contains around 10g/100g of these fatty acids. This makes it a great natural supplement for those looking to improve their overall health and minimize discomfort
Higher Omega-3 Fatty Acid Concentration in Green-Lipped Mussel Oil
Green-lipped mussel oil is also a rich source of Omega-3 fatty acids, which have been found to be essential for joint health. These essential fatty acids help to lubricate the joints, minimizing discomfort and improve flexibility. They also help to protect against oxidative stress, which can lead to joint damage.
While cod liver oil also contains Omega-3 fatty acids, it is not as concentrated as green-lipped mussel oil. This means that you would have to take a higher dose of cod liver oil to get the same benefits as green-lipped mussel oil.
Green-lipped mussel oil contains more nutrients
Green-lipped mussel oil contains a wider range of nutrients compared to cod liver oil. It is rich in vitamins B and C, as well as other important minerals such as calcium, manganese, and zinc. These nutrients are essential for joint health, helping to improve bone mineral density and reducing discomfort.
Cod liver oil, on the other hand, is known for its high concentration of vitamin D and vitamin A. While these vitamins are important for overall health, they are not as beneficial for joint health as the nutrients found in green-lipped mussel oil.
Vitamin D is necessary for calcium absorption, which is important for bone health, but it does not have a direct effect on joint well-being or discomfort. Vitamin A can help maintain healthy bones, but research indicates that its main benefit in protecting bone health lies in the prevention of osteoporosis, which is not related to joint problems. Additionally, too much vitamin A can lead to toxicity and myriad side effects. Therefore, people should consult their healthcare professionals before taking any kind of supplementation for joint support.
No risk of excessive Vitamin A overdose:
One of the downsides of taking cod liver oil is the risk of vitamin A overdose, known as Vitamin A Toxicity, according to the National Library of Medicine. Vitamin A is a fat-soluble vitamin that can accumulate in the body, leading to toxicity if taken in excessive amounts. This can lead to a range of symptoms, including discomfort in the joint and bone loss.
Vitamin A is an essential nutrient for maintaining healthy vision, skin, and bones. However, it is possible to overdose on vitamin A. Acute vitamin A toxicity can occur when an adult ingests several hundred thousand international units (IUs) of vitamin A. Chronic toxicity can happen when a person takes megavitamin therapy or large doses of supplements over a long period. Symptoms of vitamin A toxicity include headaches, nausea, vomiting, dry skin and hair loss. It is important to be aware of the potential risks associated with taking too much vitamin A and to consult with a healthcare professional before taking any supplements or medications containing vitamin A.
Green-lipped mussel oil does not contain high levels of vitamin A. This means that it is a safer choice for those who need to avoid Vitamin A Toxicity, such as pregnant women and people with liver disease.
Green-lipped mussel oil vs. cod liver oil: A clear choice
When it comes to choosing a supplement for joint health, it’s clear that green-lipped mussel oil is a better choice than cod liver oil. It has natural soothing properties, a high concentration of omega-3 fatty acids, and a wider range of nutrients essential for joint health. Plus, it has a lower risk of vitamin A toxicity, making it a safer option for long-term use.
If you’re struggling with joint discomfort or osteoarthritis, adding green-lipped mussel oil to your daily routine can provide relief and improve your overall joint health. So why wait? Start incorporating GLX3 into your daily routine today!
