Mario Ojeda Jr.

Pass the oil, please

Have you ever wondered what exactly was in the Tin Man's oil can in "The Wizard of Oz"?  Seemed like it worked magic on his neck, elbows and knees! After putting in an honest day's drive in long-haul, don't you find yourself feeling like the Tin Man...without the oil? As professional drivers, we make sure the trucks and trailers we drive are adequately lubricated, yet neglect the "equipment" behind the steering wheel.
We all know, by name, the oils/lubricants in the automotive section at the truck stop. However, did you know that your body's joints, ligaments and arteries are not so different from the suspension rods, struts, ball/joints and hoses on your vehicle?

Perhaps the Tin Man's miracle oil was none other than cod liver oil. It just might be that, once again, Grandma was right! Indeed, ingesting a teaspoon a day of cod liver oil can do wonders for that annoying "tennis elbow," strained neck muscles and pain in the lower back, sciatic nerve, knees, wrists, ankles, etc. It turns out that cod liver oil has been the remedy for joint pain and muscle strain for centuries before today's pharmaceutical alternatives. In conjunction with a well-rounded multivitamin supplement, plenty of water and a diet rich in fruits, vegetables, nuts and fish (especially salmon), I've seen tremendous results in just a few weeks.

Another added benefit of cod liver oil is that it's rich in omega-3 fatty acids, which research suggests may be linked to lowering blood pressure and contributing to improved cardiovascular/coronary health. Omega-3 fatty acids may help maintain healthy blood arteries by preventing plaque/lipid buildup inside arterial walls and keeping blood arteries flexible in order to prevent hardening of the arteries.

Some other suggested benefits include a reduction of insulin resistance, inflammation, risk of cancer and Alzheimer's disease.

If you choose to supplement your diet with Omega-3, you can do so with products including fish oil capsules and cod liver oil. Please note that taking a teaspoon of fish oil in liquid form requires an acquired taste, so you may prefer it in capsule form. 

If you're not already on an Omega-3-rich diet, visit the dietary supplement/health foods aisle before going to the automotive section on your next shopping visit. Just remember that there is no yellow brick road to lead you there!

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