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You’ve probably heard of the importance of omega 3 and the health benefits it can provide us with. Omega 3 is considered an essential nutrient and due to the fact our bodies are incapable of making it, we need to obtain it from other sources. It’s especially important that children are getting the necessary amount of omega 3 in their daily diets, as their bodies are still growing and developing. In this blog, we’ll look into how omega 3 can potentially positively influence a child’s development.
Brain Development
Our brains need fatty acids to be able to grow. DHA, which comes from omega 3 fatty acids, makes up 40% of all fatty acids found in the brain. DHA is necessary for the growth and development of several nerve systems in the brain. As the brain grows at its greatest rate whilst a person is young, it’s important to ensure they are getting all the essential nutrients necessary for their development. Studies have shown that DHA can help to improve cognition within children, whilst it is also reported that DHA can have a positive impact on behaviour.
Concentration & Memory
It has been reported that omega 3 is able to greatly improve concentration. Certain studies have also shown that people who obtain the recommended daily amount of omega 3 tend to have more accurate memory when compared to people who don’t get enough. It’s especially important that children aren’t suffering from an omega 3 deficiency as one of the main symptoms is poor concentration. As a child, your cognitive ability is constantly growing, so it’s essential that this growth is nurtured by getting the essential nutrients that can help development. Some studies have even noted that omega 3 may help to improve symptoms commonly associated with ADHD.
Nervous System Support
During child development, the nervous system continues to grow. Omega 3 plays a significant role in supporting the nervous system. Fatty acids help to keep the central nervous system functioning properly and help to maintain homeostasis in the body. To put it more simply, omega 3 can help to keep the nervous system ticking over and helps us to function normally.
Visual Development
Another area that omega 3 can reportedly have an influence over throughout child development is visual ability. It has been reported that DHA plays a crucial role in the brain and eye development of children.
Now that you know how omega 3 can potentially benefit your child’s development, the next step is getting your child to obtain the recommended daily amount! As discussed in our previous blog, the best sources of omega 3 come from oily fish such as salmon, sardines and anchovies. We understand that these foods aren’t likely to appeal to kids, so other options include beef, walnuts and tuna. If you’re really struggling to find a meal that contains omega 3 that your kid will eat, then it might be worth trying an omega supplement such as Udo’s Choice Ultimate Oil Blend.
Udo's Choice Ultimate Oil Blend, provides omega 3 in the form of ALA (alpha-linolenic acid) the most common omega-3 fat. ALA is used for energy and becomes biologically active when it's converted into EPA or DHA.
Omega 3 provides crucial nutritional value and health benefits for people of all ages. However, it is especially important for children as this period of time is when the majority of development and growth takes place.
