Is Cod Liver Oil Safe For Treating Teething Problems In Babies?

Teething is when a baby's first set of teeth grows from their gums. It can be a difficult period for babies and parents. Understanding what to expect during teething and how to make it less stressful can go a long way.

On average, the lower front teeth start to sprout between 4 and 8 months of age, and the last set of molars doesn't sprout until 30 to 36 months of age.

Teething signs include annoyance, trouble sleeping, swollen gums, drooling, appetite loss, rash around the mouth, slight fever, diarrhoea, increased biting and gum-rubbing, and even ear rubbing.

What is cod liver oil?

The cod family product called cod liver oil is made from the cod fish liver. Cod oil is rich in vitamins A and D. Vitamin D is necessary for calcium absorption and bone growth, whereas vitamin A is essential for a healthy immune system and skin.

Components of cod liver oil

Two omega-3 fatty acids, eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) make up most of cod liver oil produced from the liver of cod fish.

Cod liver oil, a strong source of vitamins A and D, can be taken orally as a daily supplement.

While fulfilling the consumption requirements, it can be used as a supplemental treatment and preventative therapy for rickets, osteomalacia, and osteoporosis common in babies.

Health benefits of cod liver oil

It helps to maintain heart health: By taking cod liver oil or its supplements, the risk of numerous cardiac issues can be significantly and naturally decreased. This advantage is brought about by the substantial amounts of omega-3 fatty acids.

These fatty acids shield against heart disease by keeping blood pressure within normal ranges and avoiding plaque accumulation in their blood vessels.

These components work in unison to protect heart health and reduce the danger of various heart diseases.

It protects the bone: Bone health is one of the very first things to decline as children get older.

Cod liver oil has a high vitamin D level, it is a great way to build bones and stop age-related bone issues. This is achieved by boosting their body's absorption of calcium from food and supplements, ensuring their bones remain healthy for a more extended time.

It helps to prevent diabetes: The prevalence of type 1 diabetes in children is rising. Multiple research studies suggest that administering this oil to babies may reduce their likelihood of acquiring type 1 diabetes.

The anti-inflammatory effects of omega-3 fatty acids may help prevent type 1 diabetes in children.

It helps to boost immunity: Cod liver oil is a strong source of vitamin A. This vitamin is a potent antioxidant that protects their body from environmental free radicals and oxidative stress.

These components boost immunity and protect your body from harmful diseases and bacterial infections.

It helps to control cholesterol levels: Cod liver oil contains a lot of lipids. However, they are all good fats. There are lots of omega-3 fatty acids in it. This natural powerhouse helps elevate HDL, the good cholesterol in the body while lowering LDL, a low-density lipoprotein and a bad type of fat.

Side effects of cod liver oil in babies

Cod liver oil is usually safe if your child takes the recommended dosage, which you can find on the product label. Always consult your doctor and thoroughly read the product description before using a new supplement.

Bad breath, heartburn, nosebleeds, and belches that taste fishy (often referred to as "fish burps") are a few of the adverse effects of cod liver oil.

Never force an infant or young child to consume an oil-based supplement since they might suffocate or breathe it into their lungs. Other adverse effects include:

Large amounts of vitamin D: This oil has a high amount of vitamin D, which may lead to several problems, such as a faster heartbeat, dry skin, a dry mouth, a lack of urination, etc.

It has anticoagulant properties: Due to its blood-thinning or anticoagulant properties, there is a greater chance of significant bleeding after an injury.

Contamination with Mercury and Polychlorinated Biphenyls (PCB): There is a possibility that cod liver oil will be contaminated with mercury or PCBs. As a result, the supplement needs to be used with caution because it could harm your baby's growth.

Can I use cod liver oil for treating teething pain in my baby?

No research links liver cod oil to treating a baby's teething problems. Despite the numerous health advantages of cod liver oil for babies, you should only administer it to your child under a doctor's care.

Babies still being nursed may benefit significantly if the mother takes cod liver oil. The paediatrician recommended dosage of cod liver oil for newborns and kids is as follows:

Regular oil intake should range from one-quarter to one-half of a teaspoon for young children.
Older children should take 1-2 teaspoons of cod liver oil daily, depending on their age and vitamin D requirements.

You can administer cod liver oil to your baby by injecting it at the back of their mouth using a sterile syringe. There are fewer taste buds there and your child won't be able to detect the undesirable aftertaste. You can also mix the oil with breast milk.

There are numerous ways for parents to help their children during the teething process;

Give your child a gum rub. Use a clean finger or a damp piece of cloth to rub your baby's gums. The pressure from your hand could help your baby feel less uncomfortable.