Role of Cod Liver Oil in Reducing Elevated Lipid Parameters

Area of Science:

• Cardiovascular Medicine
• Nutritional Science

Background:

• Cod liver oil, rich in omega-3 fatty acids, is recognized for potential health benefits.
• Omega-3 fatty acids can reduce very-low-density lipoprotein synthesis, leading to lower serum triglycerides.
• Elevated cholesterol and low-density lipoprotein (LDL) levels are significant cardiovascular risk factors.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the efficacy of cod liver oil combined with rosuvastatin in reducing lipid levels.
• To compare the lipid-lowering effects of rosuvastatin with and without cod liver oil supplementation.

Main Methods:

• A single-blind, placebo-controlled, two-arm interventional study.
• 600 treatment-naïve patients with elevated cholesterol/LDL were randomized.
• Intervention group: rosuvastatin + cod liver oil; Control group: rosuvastatin + placebo.

Main Results:

• The intervention group showed significantly greater reductions in total cholesterol (p<0.0001) and LDL (p<0.0001) compared to the placebo group.
• Both groups exhibited significant reductions in all lipid values from baseline to day 30.
• Specific mean total cholesterol: 152.22 ± 29.75 mg/dL (intervention) vs. 171.65 ± 31.21 mg/dL (placebo).
• Specific mean LDL: 72.41 ± 27.52 mg/dL (intervention) vs. 79.15 ± 29.12 mg/dL (placebo).

Conclusions:

• Cod liver oil, when added to rosuvastatin, enhances cholesterol reduction beyond rosuvastatin monotherapy.
• Lifestyle modifications should be the primary approach for patients managing lipid levels.
• Further large-scale trials are warranted to confirm the role of cod liver oil in lipid management.