Omega-3s are essential fatty acids -- we need them for our bodies to work properly. So how do omega-3s benefit children? Here's the rundown on the research.
Keep in mind that few of these studies are definitive, and larger studies are needed to determine therapeutic benefit. Also, some studies used food sources of omega-3s, and others used omega-3 supplements. More research needs to be done before we'll know the full implications.
Are omega-3 supplements for children an option? Before starting any supplement for your child, be sure you consult your physician first.
Omega-3s for Infants, Prenatal Health, and Pregnancy
Omega-3s are important for children's health right from the start – actually, before they're even born. Here's some of the evidence.
Cognitive development. Some studies show that infants fed formulas enriched with the omega-3 fatty acid DHA show improvements in hand-eye coordination, attention span, social skills, and intelligence test scores. Studies have shown that children born to mothers who took supplements of omega-3s (DHA and EPA) during pregnancy and the during the first months of breastfeeding scored higher on cognitive tests at 4 years of age compared to children whose mothers did not take supplements of DHA and EPA.
Asthma risk. A 2008 study found that the teenage children of women who took fish oil during pregnancy were less likely to have developed asthma.
Growth. There's some evidence that when omega-3s are added to formula, it promotes growth and brain development in premature infants.
Preterm labor. A 2003 study found that women who ate eggs enriched with omega-3s were less likely to go into premature labor than women who ate standard eggs.
Although none of these studies are conclusive, there's good reason to make sure that infants – and pregnant women -- are getting their omega 3s such as DHA and EPA.
Many infant formulas are now supplemented with DHA. A mother's breast milk is an ideal source of omega-3s, although it may be affected by how many omega-3s she's getting in her diet.
Omega-3s for Children and Teens
ADHD. Kids with ADHD may have lower levels of omega-3s in their bodies than normal, and a few small studies have looked at fish oil supplements as a treatment. They found that the supplements might improve behavior, reduce hyperactivity, and boost attention in kids under 12.
Depression. Fish oil is often used as a treatment for depression in adults; there have been a few studies in children too. One small 2006 study of fish oil in depressed 6- to 12-year-olds found it helped their symptoms significantly.
Diabetes. One small study looked at kids who were at high risk of developing type 2 diabetes. The researchers found that those who ate a high omega-3 diet were less likely to develop the condition.
Asthma. Omega-3s may reduce inflammation in the airways, which could benefit those with asthma. One small study of 29 children with asthma found that those taking fish oil for 10 months had fewer symptoms than those who didn't. However, other studies of omega-3s as an asthma treatment have not found consistent evidence that they help.
This is part of an article from WebMD that was written by R. Morgan Griffin and reviewed by Brunilda Nazario, MD. Go to http://www.webmd.com/diet/features/who-needs-omega-3s to read more.
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