Fish oil is loaded with two omega-3 fatty acids, docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) and eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA). Essential fatty acids (EFAs), especially omega-3s, are fats of special importance in preventing blood clots, lower blood pressure, fueling healthy growth and development, particularly in children’s brain development and functioning. Researchers are coming to understand that omega-3 deficiencies play a special role in behavioral disorders, as they are specifically implicated in maintaining central nervous system function. They also required for cellular hormone regulation, which is involved in almost every biologically significant process in the body. These deficiencies also affect neurotransmitters, peptides, hormones, and a variety of cognitive processes in the brain.
An earlier study also showed that hyper-active children had lower levels of DHA. Equally important, these researchers found that children with low levels of omega-3 EFAs exhibited a greater number of behavior problems, temper tantrums, sleep problems, and learning problems than their peers. They also had more health problems. Some researchers believe that children with attention deficits are less efficient in converting fats in the diet to the active omega-3 constituents, EPA and DHA. Different studies are geared towards proving that fish oil can help children cope with the challenges of early learning. It is found that the children are able to retain information better and were less inclined to take sick days.
Another study suggests that fish oil can significantly improve the behaviour of unruly children and bonding with their parents. Children were assessed for their motor skills, IQ, reading, spelling and behaviour, and the study identified a huge reduction in symptoms of the sort associated with attention deficit and hyperactivity disorder.
What is the best fish oil dosage for children? The recommended dosage for children over 5 years old is 1000-1200mg of quality fish oil which should provide at least 500mg of EPA fatty acids and 150-350mg DHA fatty acids. For infants under five, try a lower dosage first to make sure there are no adverse reactions such as feeling sick or diarrhea. And when is the time to take fish oil? It’s ideal to take fish oil supplements with meals and spread out over the day so you don’t get that fishy taste. After that be sure to keep them in the fridge.
