This cod liver oil is the crudest form on the market, purposely less refined to retain the unsaturated fatty acids: linoleic, linolenic and arachidonic. A specific Omega-3 fatty acid called EPA (eicosapentaenoic acid) found in cold water fish and marine mammals has been found to help protect against heart conditions. The primary mechanism responsible for this is EPA's nutritional ability to thin blood and discourage excess blood clotting. Additionally, EPA may aid in protecting our bodies by lowering triglycerides while raising HDL's (high-density lipoproteins), which are beneficial lipoproteins. EPA has anti-inflammatory agents which can have positive effects on the immune system. Cod liver oil is also an effective source of essential Vitamins A and D.