The significance of Omega-3 fatty acids in children’s health starts right from the start as the foetus forms in the mother’s womb. Not only does it help in healthy brain development but it also provides a range of health benefits when taken regularly. Therefore, parents should take extra care in their children’s diet by providing them highly nutritious foods that are rich in Omega-3 fatty acids.
Unhealthy snack options, sugar, processed foods, and fast food, are a huge excitement for kids but do not offer any health benefit. This trend poses a serious challenge for all parents. In spite of the difficulty, parents should make sure that children get the right quantity of omega-3 fatty acid. Brain development and Omega-3 fatty acids go hand in hand. Brain-cell growth is extremely vital in children and to aid healthy brain development, Omega-3 fatty acids are essential.
Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder is a common health disorder in childhood that can continue through adulthood. The increase of ADHD is concerning and an excellent way to combat it is tp increase intake of Omega-3 fatty acids. Consuming Omega-3 fatty acids can help treat this medical condition effectively in children. Childhood depression can also be improved due the effects of eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA).
In general, pregnant women should make sure that they have a healthy diet, as the food they consume during pregnancy lays the foundation for the health of the baby in the womb. It is, therefore, highly beneficial to include Omega-3 fatty acids in a mother’s diet because it can strongly impact the brain development of the baby in the womb. Breast-milk is highly regarded because it is a rich natural source of nutrients and most importantly it has a high level of DHA which is an important component of Omega-3 fatty acids. In fact, there are many Omega-3 rich supplements available for pregnant women and kids.
You can find a substantial amount of Omega-3 in seafood especially in certain kinds of fish as well as fish oils. However, not all kinds of fish will be suitable for children because some will contain high levels of mercury which will have a negative impact on the overall development of babies and children. It is best to avoid fish varieties with high mercury levels and choose varieties such as salmon, shrimp, tilapia, cod-fish, etc
For kids who are vegetarian, consumption of flaxseed, flaxseed oil, walnut, canola oil, etc. would give a good amount of Omega-3 fatty acids. You can make it easy for children by mixing these ingredients in children’s favorite food or snack. An alternative to direct source of Omega-3 is health supplements meant for children, enriched with this fatty acid.
However it is good to check with a healthcare professional about the right dosage and optimal source of Omega 3 fatty acids for pregnant women, infants and children to safely take advantage of this wonder nutrient.
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