A large study in Norway has shown that people taking cod liver oil were less likely to become depressed than those that did not take it (see the full story on the BBC website) .

Cod liver oil is rich in omega 3 fatty acids that have been shown to help alleviate depression (for example see here) as well as helping to reduce cardiovascular disease, prevent and even alleviate joint inflammation and arthritis.

So maybe our grannies were right to take a spoonful of CLO every day!

As well as being rich in omega 3 fats, cod liver oil also contains vitamin D and vitamin A, and has been used to treat rickets (vitamin D deficiency) in children in the past.

If you decide to take cod liver oil, please take care and buy a good supplement to ensure that it has been screened for toxins and heavy metals - many of the cheaper high street brands have been shown to contain nasties such as PCBs and mercury, which are definitely NOT beneficial for your health! Go to a good health food store and ask for advice.

Please note that cod liver oil is not suitable for women who are pregnant or trying to become pregnant or for people that have liver damage, due to the high vitamin A content.