The Health Benefits of Omega 3 for Children

Omega 3 fatty acids have received critical and near universal accolade from both the medical and scientific community due to the remarkable range of health benefits they offer. This incredible nutrient benefits people of all age-groups from the child who is still in the mother’s womb to a fully-grown up adult.

Armed with such overwhelmingly positive results and benefits, Omega 3 fatty acids were considered ideal for adults for many years. However, it was only recently that studies were conducted in an attempt to determine the benefits (if any) that a child could enjoy by increasing the consumption of omega 3 fatty acids. The results were astonishing, as the scientists discovered innumerable health benefits of omega 3 for children.

As children reach puberty, their bodies undergo a number of physiological changes in order to better equip them for adulthood, and like any grandly ambitious construction project, this also requires plenty of energy and high-quality raw material (nutrients). This energy and nutritional support is offered by omega 3 fatty acids.

Scientific studies have been especially interested in the effects that the Omega 3 fatty acids have on the brain and learning capabilities of children, and again, the results were remarkable.  No one could have even imagined that a simple nutrient could hold so much power?

One of these studies noticed that the learning abilities of children (including cognitive abilities, reading and spelling proficiency along with their attention to detail) who routinely consumed fish oil were significantly higher than the control group who did not have Omega 3 in their diet.

Polyunsaturated fatty acids (omega 3) are also known to have anti-inflammatory properties that offer strong protection for the child’s bones and muscles.

To sum up, here are the various benefits of omega 3 fish oil for children -

1)      Combats cardio-vascular problems, allowing for improved blood circulation.

2)      Increases and streamlines the cognitive abilities, learning capabilities and ability to process as well as recall information.

3)      Protects against neurological disorders such as ADHD, and hyperactivity.

4)      Reduces the risks of developing muscular-skeletal problems such as arthritis and osteoporosis in their later years

Health practitioners and nutritionists recommend a daily dosage of 400-500mg of omega 3 supplements such as cod liver oil for maximum benefit. Another way of getting adequate amount of omega 3 is by increasing your consumption of fatty fish such as sardines, mackerel and tuna.  This can protect you against a wide range of health problems both physical and mental.

Ensure that your child eats fish at least once a week or more, as this will protect them against chronic ailments and has long-term benefits too.

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