Choosing the Right Omega 3 Supplements for your Kids
Filed under: Choosing the Right Omega 3 Supplements for your Kids
The benefits of Omega 3 fatty acids have always been questioned on the basis of one or the other parameter, the most recent one being ‘whether or not Omega 3 are safe for children’. The fact is there are numerous health benefits of omega 3 fatty acids that work for adults as well as for children. However it is essential to choose the right supplements and take the right dosage for maximum benefit.
The general mentality of most people regarding omega 3 consumption is, “How can something so healthy, pose any sort of problem?” Sadly, the fact is there are certain risks and problems associated with omega 3 supplementation.
One of the most common and richest sources of Omega 3 fatty acids are deep sea fishes. However the level of pollutants in sea water is rising, which is why fishes such as salmon, sardines, halibut etc are found to have high levels of toxins in them. Thus it is best to opt for purified fish oil supplements that are available in the form of oil and capsules.
Secondly, children often find it hard to ingest the fish oil capsule. To make the process simpler, you can cut open the shell of the capsule, and blend the oil inside it with their preferred cereal or yoghurt. Not only will they digest fish oil easily this way, but will also enjoy it more.
Third, most children complain about the rotten smell or the “fish burps” they get after taking fish oil supplements. This happens when the oil has gone rancid or is of inferior quality. Consuming such oil can also increase the amount of free radicals, which can further cause a variety of health problems. To avoid this, choose fresh and purified oil that doesn’t have a peculiar smell.
Let us take a look at the remarkable benefits offered by the Omega 3 supplements -
- Pregnant women should increase their intake of omega 3 supplements as the DHA fatty acids present in fish oil are essential for proper fetal brain development and to avoid any kind of fetal defects.
- Omega 3 fatty acids – EPA (Eicosapentaenoic acid) and DHA (Docosahexaenoic acid) play an important role in treating neurological health problems such as ADHD and ADD. They significantly improve memory, increase concentration & focus, boost learning abilities and reduce hyperactivity in children.
- Lack of DHA can lead to mood swings, depression and other emotional disorders. Adequate consumption of omega 3 can prevent such conditions and improve your child’s overall health.
There are two things you should keep in mind when buying Fish oil supplements –
- Ensure that you choose molecularly distilled fish oil supplements that are free from all kinds of contaminants (such as mercury, lead, PCBs) and are safe for regular consumption.
- The concentration of DHA in the supplement should be higher than EPA fatty acids, since your body needs more of DHA. Also it is easier for the body to convert DHA fatty acids into EPA.
If you want your child to benefit from omega 3 fatty acids in a safe and effective way, then it is essential that you choose the highest quality supplements that are purified and contain the right concentration of DHA and EPA in them.
Article Source: http://ezinearticles.com/?Fish-Oil-For-Children—Discover-the-Importance-of-Omega-3-Fish-Oil-to-the-Development-of-Your-Kids&id=2499814