The liver of sharks, particularly deep-sea sharks, basking sharks, and dogfish sharks, serve as the principal source of shark liver oil (SLO), which is extracted from these organs. Over many years, it has been employed in traditional Scandinavian medicine for the treatment of various ailments, including ulceration, tumors, cardiovascular disorders, and infertility.
Currently, it is marketed as a dietary supplement asserting to deliver the same advantageous health effects on the liver as it did previously. Researchers attribute shark liver oil’s numerous health benefits to its high concentrations of omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFA), squalene, and alkylglycerol. This section discusses the uses and benefits of shark liver oil, all of which are backed up by scientific evidence.
One of the most well-known benefits of shark liver oil is its capacity to fight cancer. The high levels of squalene and AKG present in shark oil, which are contributing factors, support sharks’ exceptionally low cancer incidence.
AKG is a form of adipose tissue found in the liver, bone marrow, and spleen, all of which are organs involved in the production of blood. Furthermore, it is commonly found in red blood cells, breast milk, and shark liver oil, among other sources. Based on macrophage activation and evidence of anti-angiogenic effects, it is believed that AKG has the capacity to suppress tumor progression.
An additional unexpected benefit of consuming shark liver oil is its capacity to diminish. Nevertheless, the scientific evidence regarding squalene remains inconclusive. Squalene, on the other hand, has been demonstrated to have anti-atherosclerotic effects, indicating that it may help prevent or reduce plaque buildup in the arteries, which raises the risk of high blood pressure and stroke.
It is also believed that squalene accumulates in the liver and diminishes the synthesis of triglycerides and cholesterol. Squalene serves as a precursor in the biosynthetic pathway of cholesterol. Conversely, further research findings suggest that squalene may contribute to an increase in total cholesterol and triglyceride levels.
Regular incorporation of shark liver oil into your routine will unquestionably provide supplementary benefits. Obtaining information concerning the appropriate dosage of shark liver oil or the advised duration of its use as a supplement can be challenging. Depending on the user’s needs and any pre-existing conditions, the intake specifications may vary.
Although manufacturers advise consuming shark liver oil supplements with food to enhance assimilation, there is no scientific evidence to support this recommendation. Prior to acquiring shark liver oil in Singapore, it is strongly advised to seek consultation with a healthcare professional to obtain guidance regarding appropriate dosage, duration, and potential risks associated with high intake of the product.
Shark Liver Oil: Benefits and Side Effects
