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)