Shark Liver Oil (SLO)

What is Shark Liver Oil?

Shark liver oil is an oil obtained from the livers of sharks(1). It has been used for centuries as a folk remedy to promote the healing of wounds and as a remedy for respiratory tract and digestive system problems(1). It is still promoted as a dietary supplement, and additional claims have been made that it can treat other maladies such as cancer, HIV, radiation sickness, swine flu, and the common cold(1). However, to date, none of these claims has been medically validated and shark liver oil (alone) is not a medication prescribed or utilized by American physicians(1).

Uses and Benefits

Dosage

There is no established standard dose of shark liver oil. However, in studies, doses of 500-1000 mg per day have been used(2). It is recommended to follow the instructions on the supplement bottle or to consult with a healthcare practitioner for personalized advice.

Side Effects

Shark liver oil is generally considered safe when taken as a dietary supplement(2). However, some shark liver oil supplements have been found to be contaminated with polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs) and polybrominated diphenyl ethers (PBDEs)(1). PCBs can have harmful effects in humans, and may increase the risk of some types of cancer(1). People with seafood allergies may also react to shark liver oil(1).

Interactions

There is limited information on the interactions of shark liver oil with other medications or supplements. It is recommended to consult with a healthcare practitioner before taking shark liver oil with other medications or supplements.

Time of Day and With or Without Food

There is no specific time of day recommended for taking shark liver oil(2). Shark liver oil supplements are typically sold as capsules or soft gels and can be taken with or without food(2)(3).

Human Studies

Shark liver oil has been used for centuries as a folk remedy to promote the healing of wounds and as a remedy for respiratory tract and digestive system problems(1). Shark liver oil is a source of compounds called alkylglycerols, which are a type of fat(2). The alkylglycerols in shark liver oil might have anticancer effects and help boost the immune system(2)(5). However, more research is needed to determine the efficacy and safety of shark liver oil for various conditions.

In conclusion, shark liver oil is an oil obtained from the livers of sharks. It has been used for centuries as a folk remedy to promote the healing of wounds and as a remedy for respiratory tract and digestive system problems. Shark liver oil may be used for wound healing, chemotherapy side effects, the common cold, and the flu. Shark liver oil is generally considered safe when taken as a dietary supplement, but some shark liver oil supplements have been found to be contaminated with polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs) and polybrominated diphenyl ethers (PBDEs). There is no established standard dose of shark liver oil, and it is recommended to follow the instructions on the supplement bottle or to consult with a healthcare practitioner for personalized advice. There is no specific time of day recommended for taking shark liver oil, and it can be taken with or without food. More research is needed to determine the efficacy and safety of shark liver oil for various conditions.

Citations:
(1) https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Shark_liver_oil
(2) https://www.webmd.com/vitamins/ai/ingredientmono-956/shark-liver-oil
(3) https://www.lifeextension.com/vitamins-supplements/item52859/shark-liver-oil
(4) https://www.amazon.com/shark-liver-oil/s?k=shark+liver+oil
(5) https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/shark-liver-oil
(6) https://www.elsevier.es/en-revista-annals-hepatology-16-articulo-shark-liver-oil-hidden-dangers-S1665268119314516

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