DEAR READER: Cod-liver oil can cause GI upset, indigestion, abdominal pain, diarrhea, rash and a number of other unwanted symptoms in anyone. Because you are allergic to fish, you should avoid fish-oil supplements.

Speak with your physician regarding the possibility of taking flaxseed, grape seed or eating more green, leafy vegetables and nuts such as sunflowers or walnuts as a replacement for cod-liver oil. I must defer to your primary-care physician, who knows your medical history and can guide you better than I.