Five Ways Cod Liver Oil Could Improve Your Golf

Cod liver oil is a simple supplement that could improve the quality of your health on and off the golf course

Golf is generally regarded as a low impact sport with an emphasis on accuracy and skill over power and strength. However, the regular golfer knows not to underestimate the physical demands a round of golf can bring. Stamina, fitness and excellent hand-eye coordination are all key to a successful game.

Taking care of your body will help you avoid injury and maximise your long-term health. In addition to general fitness training, cod liver oil supplements, which have high levels of omega-3 fatty acids and more vitamin A and D by unit weight than any other common food, could help keep you on top form.

Here are five ways cod liver oil could benefit the regular golfer:

1. Healthy joints

Cod liver oil can work wonders for an athlete’s joints, especially in a sport such as golf, which relies heavily on a vigorous, repetitive swing. Research indicates the omega-3 fatty acids in cod liver oil have anti-inflammatory qualities, known to reduce joint pain and prevent cartilage damage. All those strokes are bound to put a strain on your wrists and shoulder joints, so it pays to keep them well maintained and in good condition.

2. Fitness and endurance

The omega-3 in cod liver oil contains essential fatty acids EPA and DHA.The former is known to promote a healthy heart and cardiovascular system by reducing inflammation in the blood vessels and by lowering blood pressure. Adding EPA to your diet could improve the blood flow around your body, increasing aerobic fitness and stamina.

3. Brain power

The other essential fatty acid contained in cod liver oil, DHA, is used by the body for brain and central nervous system development. Golf is a tactical game, requiring careful planning, accuracy and concentration. Taking a supplement like cod liver oil could improve the mental as well as physical aspects of your game.

4. Good eyesight

In almost any sport, decent eyesight is paramount and when golf involves hitting drives as far as 200-300 yards, having a sharp eye is essential for aim and accuracy. Cod liver oil contains preformed vitamin A, or retinol, which promotes good vision and may counteract eyesight problems down the line.

5. Strong bones

Although often forgotten, bones are as vital to an athlete’s performance as muscles. The vitamin D in cod liver oil promotes calcium absorption - crucial for bone growth and strength. Vitamin D is usually obtained from sunlight, so taking a supplement like cod liver oil could keep you topped up during winter months when the days are shorter.