Solgar Cod Liver Oil: shark liver oil with vitamins A and D
The Solgar Cod Liver Oil is a dietary supplement in soft capsules, with shark liver oil from deep cold sea fish. Each capsule provides 462mg of shark liver oil, providing 375µg RE vitamin A (47% of the Recommended Dietary Allowance) and 3.4µg vitamin D (68% of the RDA). The package contains 100 soft capsules.
It is aimed at adults who do not often consume fatty fish and want a natural dietary source of vitamins A and D, especially during the months with little sunshine. It is not suitable for vegetarians or those with fish allergies.
Why shark liver oil is special among fish oils
Most fish oils on the market come from the flesh of small pelagic fish and mainly contain omega-3 fatty acids. Shark liver oil is extracted from the liver of the shark, an organ in which the fish stores fat-soluble vitamins. Therefore, its composition is different, as it also carries significant amounts of vitamins A and D along with the fatty acids. Historically, this was the reason shark liver oil was widely used in countries in the North, where sun exposure is limited for much of the year.
Vitamin D is fat-soluble and its main source for humans is the synthesis in the skin under the influence of sunlight, which decreases in winter, in a sedentary lifestyle or with the use of sunscreen. Vitamin A, on the other hand, is found in animal foods as retinol and in plant foods as provitamin. Since both are fat-soluble, they are better absorbed when they coexist with fat, which is why taking it with a meal is a reasonable choice.
How Solgar positions the product
According to the product presentation by Solgar, shark liver oil is described as a natural source of vitamins A and D, with the following points highlighted:
- Normal function of the immune system. Point covered by approved claims for both vitamin D and vitamin A.*
- Maintenance of healthy bones and teeth. Vitamin D contributes to the maintenance of the normal condition of bones and teeth.*
- Normal absorption of calcium and phosphorus. Refers to the role of vitamin D in the utilization of these metals by the body.*
- Normal muscle function. Approved claim for vitamin D.*
- Maintenance of normal vision and healthy skin. Points attributed to vitamin A by Solgar.*
- Cellular differentiation. Vitamin A has a role in the process of cellular differentiation.*
The above statements are attributed to the producer and in this case correspond to approved claims for vitamins A and D. The omega-3 fatty acids naturally contained in the liver oil do not reach the amounts required for the corresponding approved claims, so no claim is made for them.
Nutritional ingredients one by one
- Vitamin A 375µg RE (47% RDA): contributes to the maintenance of normal vision, normal skin and mucous membranes, normal function of the immune system and normal iron metabolism.*
- Vitamin D 3.4µg (68% RDA): contributes to the normal absorption and utilization of calcium and phosphorus, to the maintenance of normal bones, teeth and muscle function and to the normal function of the immune system.*
- Shark liver oil 462mg: the natural matrix of the product, which carries the two fat-soluble vitamins along with the fatty acids of the fish.
Who is it suitable for
It suits adults with low fish consumption, those who spend most of the day indoors and have limited sun exposure, as well as older people interested in taking vitamin D in combination with the calcium from their diet. It also suits those who prefer a natural source of vitamins over a synthetic preparation. It is not suitable for vegans and people with fish allergies. It is a dietary supplement and does not replace a medical diagnosis or treatment prescribed by a doctor.
Ingredients
Main ingredients per soft capsule: Shark liver oil 462mg, Vitamin A 375µg RE (47% RDA), Vitamin D 3.4µg (68% RDA).
Other ingredients: shark liver oil, capsule shell (gelatin, vegetable glycerin), palmitic retinol, cholecalciferol.
Free of: sugar, starch, yeast, wheat, gluten, dairy, preservatives, sweeteners, artificial flavors or colors.
Dosage and usage
Form: soft capsules, 100 per package.
Recommended dosage: taken as a dietary supplement for adults, 1 soft capsule daily, preferably with a meal.
With one capsule per day, the 100-capsule package is sufficient for about three and a half months of use. Do not exceed the recommended daily dosage. Dietary supplements should not be used as a substitute for a balanced diet.
Fish oils can enhance the action of anticoagulant drugs, so if you are taking such medication, consult your doctor first. Vitamin A in high intake is not recommended in pregnancy, so pregnant, breastfeeding and women planning a pregnancy should seek their doctor’s opinion before taking it. The same applies to people with diagnosed conditions or under medication. Keep the product in a cool and dry place, away from children.
Frequently asked questions
How long does the 100-capsule package last?
With the recommended dose of one capsule per day, it lasts for 100 days.
How does it differ from a common omega-3 supplement?
Shark liver oil comes from the liver of the fish and contains natural vitamins A and D, while classic fish oils from fish flesh focus on EPA and DHA.
Can I take it during pregnancy?
No, without a doctor’s recommendation, due to its vitamin A content.
Should I take it with food?
Yes, it is recommended to take it with a meal. Vitamins A and D are fat-soluble and the presence of fat helps their absorption.
Is it suitable for vegetarians or vegans?
No. The product is fish-based and the capsule shell contains gelatin.
Can I combine it with another vitamin D supplement?
Care should be taken so as not to exceed the total intake. Consult your pharmacist for your overall plan.
Does it have a strong fish taste?
It is a soft capsule that is swallowed whole, so the taste is not perceived as in liquid fish oil.
* Health claims approved under Regulation (EC) 1924/2006. The product is not intended for the prevention, treatment or cure of a human disease.
Marketing information
Nestlé Greece S.A.
Patroklou 4, 15125 Marousi, Athens
Tel: 800 116 80 68