Omega-3 has long been known as an essential nutrient for brain development. That's why pregnant women are strongly advised to consume Omega-3 supplementation in order to meet the needs of these essential fatty acids in the body, which is generally much less obtained from the daily diet, so that the brain development of the fetus can take place optimally.
Overview of the Omega-3
Omega-3 is an essential fatty acid that the body needs to function properly. One of the most important benefits of Omega-3 is its anti-inflammatory effects. Many diseases, such as heart disease and arthritis, is associated with inflammatory processes. Omega-3 may reduce inflammation, so as to prevent the various chronic diseases.
Although chronic diseases are most often affects adults, it does not mean your baby does not need Omega-3. Omega-3 is essential for children's health, since they were not even born (still a fetus in the womb). Here are some important benefits:
Brain development. Several studies have found that infant foods fortified with Omega-3 fatty acids, namely DHA, showed an improvement in hand-eye coordination, responsiveness and attention to environmental, social skills, and intelligence test scores.
The research also found that children aged 4 years born to mothers who took supplements of Omega-3 (EPA and DHA) during pregnancy and the first months of breastfeeding, getting intelligence test score higher than children born to mothers who did not take supplements EPA and DHA.
Lower Risk of Asthma. A 2008 study found that children and adolescents who were born to mothers who took supplements of Omega-3 during pregnancy appeared to have a risk of developing asthma is lower.
Supporting growth. There is some evidence to suggest that when formula milk and baby food supplemented with omega-3, it can support the growth and brain development of babies born prematurely.
Prevent Preterm Birth. In 2003, a study found that women who ate eggs enriched with Omega-3 appeared to have a lower risk of preterm birth compared with women who do not eat eggs.
In addition, there are some health conditions in children are believed to be able to overcome with the consumption of Omega-3 supplementation.
ADHD (Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder). Research indicates that supplementation with omega-3 fatty acids, particularly with higher doses of EPA, proved to be effective in the treatment of children with ADHD.
Children with ADHD generally have higher levels of Omega-3 in the body is lower than normal, so supplementation of Omega-3 will help in terms of improved behavior, decreased hyperactivity, and increased children's attention to the environment.
Depression. Fish oil is often used in the treatment of depression in adults, and there are several similar studies conducted in children. A 2006 study found that fish oil supplementation can reduce symptoms of depression in children aged 6-12 years significantly.
Diabetes. A study looked at children who have a high risk of developing Type 2 Diabetes. The researchers found that those who consume lots of Omega-3 in their diet daily decreased the risk of this disease.
Asthma. Omega-3 is able to reduce inflammation in the airways. A study of 29 children with asthma found that those who consumed fish oil for 10 months experienced fewer asthma symptoms than those who do not consume fish oil.
Omega-3 is one of the many nutrients essential for the growth and development of children. So, dear children by providing essential nutrients in adequate amounts every day!
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