Shark Liver Oil: Benefits, Risks & How to Choose
Wondering if shark liver oil is worth trying? A lot of people reach for it for immune support, skin health, or wound healing. Before you buy, know what’s actually in the oil, what the evidence says, and how to avoid low-quality or harmful products.
What’s inside and what people claim
Shark liver oil is rich in squalene (a natural oil) and alkylglycerols (AKGs). Squalene is a building block for skin oils and is often turned into squalane for cosmetics. AKGs are the compounds most linked to immune effects. People use shark liver oil for: immune support, improved skin hydration, and faster wound recovery. Some small lab studies and older clinical trials suggest AKGs can influence white blood cell activity, but evidence in humans is limited and mixed.
If you want topical benefits, squalane made from plant sources often works the same as squalene derivatives but is more sustainable. For oral use, products differ in concentration and form—some are pure oil, others are capsules with added vitamins.
How to use it safely and pick the right product
There’s no universal dose for shark liver oil. Follow the product label and check with a healthcare provider, especially if you take immune-suppressing drugs, blood thinners, or are pregnant or nursing. Start with the lowest suggested dose and watch for side effects like upset stomach or allergic reactions.
Buying tips that matter: choose brands that publish third-party test results, list the milligrams of squalene/AKGs per serving, and give a clear source for the sharks (some fisheries are better regulated than others). Avoid cheap blends that hide ingredients behind vague terms like "marine oils." Look for cold-pressed or molecularly distilled oils to reduce contaminants.
Sustainability is a real concern. Overfishing and bycatch threaten shark populations. If sustainability matters to you, prefer products certified by a recognized seafood sustainability group or pick plant-based squalane (from olives, sugarcane, or amaranth) which delivers similar skin benefits without the environmental cost.
Watch for interactions: shark liver oil can affect blood clotting in some people. If you’re on anticoagulants, ask your doctor. Also avoid combining it with other strong immune supplements unless advised by a clinician.
Bottom line: shark liver oil has interesting compounds and some promising lab and small human data, but real-world benefits are not guaranteed. Choose tested products, respect dose guidance, and consider plant-based squalane if you want similar topical results with a lower environmental impact.
After researching the incredible benefits of shark liver oil, I've discovered that it's a true nutritional powerhouse for better health and wellness. Packed with essential nutrients like omega-3 fatty acids, vitamins A and D, and squalene, it offers a range of benefits for overall wellbeing. By incorporating shark liver oil into our daily routine, we can improve our immune system, promote healthy skin, and even reduce inflammation. I'm excited to share this information with all of you, as it has the potential to make a significant impact on our lives. Give shark liver oil a try and experience the amazing health benefits it has to offer!
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