WHY DO CHILDREN NEED OMEGA 3?
Omega-3 fatty acids are essential for children's development and overall health, playing a
critical role in physical, cognitive, and emotional growth. Here’s why they are
particularly important for children:
🧠 Brain
Development and Function
- DHA, a type of omega-3, is a major component
of the brain. It supports cognitive functions like learning,
memory, attention, and problem-solving.
- Omega-3s are involved in neurotransmission (communication
between brain cells), helping the brain process information more
efficiently.
- Studies show that omega-3s contribute to improved academic
performance and school outcomes, particularly in tasks
requiring focus and memory.
💡 Cognitive
and Behavioural Health
- Omega-3s are thought to help with mood regulation, reducing
symptoms of anxiety and depression.
- In children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD), omega-3
supplementation may help with social behaviour, irritability,
and hyperactivity.
- It may also aid in managing ADHD symptoms, improving focus
and reducing impulsive behaviours.
👁️ Vision
- DHA is crucial for retinal development and maintaining
healthy vision. It supports visual processing and eye function,
and adequate omega-3 intake in childhood has been linked to better visual
acuity.
🛡️ Immune
System Support
- Omega-3s have anti-inflammatory properties that support the
immune system, promoting overall health and helping the body
respond to infections and injuries.
🏃 Physical
Growth and Development
- Omega-3 fatty acids contribute to cell membrane structure,
which is essential for proper growth and repair of tissues throughout the
body.
- They support bone health by aiding in the regulation of
calcium and bone formation, which is important during periods of rapid
growth.
😴 Sleep and
Emotional Regulation
- Omega-3s can help children with sleep disturbances, which
are common in conditions like autism and ADHD.
- Adequate omega-3 intake supports emotional regulation,
reducing irritability, frustration, and impulsivity.
🍼 Prenatal
and Early Childhood Benefits
- In pregnancy,
omega-3s support fetal brain development and may reduce the risk of
preterm birth.
- In infancy,
omega-3s are crucial for neural development, affecting learning and
memory abilities later in life.
🍣 Sources of
Omega-3 for Children
- Fatty fish (like
salmon, mackerel, sardines)
- Chia seeds, flaxseeds,
and walnuts (plant-based omega-3s)
- Omega-3 enriched eggs and grass-fed
meat (for those who avoid fish)
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