Discover the Benefits of Omega-3 for Children
Let’s face it. A number of studies have revealed the benefits of omega 3 for children. It is because of those studies that DHA (Docosahexaenoic acid) is now found in many infant formulas. It has always been in human breast milk, but until recently, it was not believed to be essential for normal growth and development.
The essential nutrients are the ones that the body cannot create. They must be present in the diet. The body can use a different omega-3 called ALA (alpha-linolenic acid) to create DHA. So, again, until recently, ALA was the only fatty acid present in infant formulas.
Years ago, doctors recommended some types of fish oil for children, in order to prevent vitamin A deficiency, which could lead to blindness, and vitamin D deficiency, which could lead to rickets and misshapen bones.
Today, a number of foods are fortified with those vitamins. So, the primary purpose of recommending fish oil for children is to ensure they have adequate intake of DHA and to a lesser extent EPA (Eicosapentaenoic acid).
The primary benefits are to the eyes and the brain, although there are benefits to all of the cells of the body, but those are mostly as we age. We recommend increased intake of omega 3 for children, because the nutrients are needed to build brain cells and structures within the eye.
Studies have shown that cognitive and visual functions are better in infants and toddlers that get enough of the nutrients in their diets. There is also some evidence that recommending fish oil for children could reduce some of the cases of allergies and asthma that we see.
Many doctors now suggest that pregnant women increase their intake of DHA. It’s not only about the benefits of omega 3 for children that they make that suggestion. It may also reduce the risk of post-partum depression and other depressive disorders.
Women taking anti-depressants are often faced with a difficult choice during pregnancy. They can stop taking the drugs and risk the sometimes serious side effects of depression or they can risk injury to the heart of the developing baby. Several studies have now shown that there is an increased incidence of congenital heart defects among infants born to women taking antidepressants.
But, there is one thing to be very careful about, if you are a pregnant woman, a nursing mother or any parent. Some of the supplements on the market are not carefully examined for contaminants.
If you buy fish oil for children, you should make sure that the manufacturer has had the product tested by an independent laboratory for mercury and other contaminants. The EPA and other health agencies have published consumption advisories for various kinds of fish, because of the mercury content. You can expect that there could be the same kind of warnings about the supplements.
In most cases, a daily dose of omega 3 for children is a safe idea. It just needs to be a mercury-free supplement. The better manufacturers make sure that you know that’s what they provide.
Laurel Cohen is a strong advocate of natural health in all its forms: skin care, supplementation, and farm fresh foods. She enjoys introducing people to the best natural products she can find and uses herself daily. Visit her site http://www.omega-3-for-health.com to learn about the omega 3 fish oils Laurel uses daily for optimal health.
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