How omega-3s support your child’s cognitive health

As a parent, you want to give your child the healthiest possible start in life—both mentally, and physically. What they eat plays a vital role in achieving this. Omega-3 are an essential nutrient with many mental and physical health benefits. They are an important part of your child’s diet—before they’re even born.

What are omega-3s?

Omega-3s are essential fatty acids. We need them for our bodies to work properly. The human body doesn’t make its own omega-3 fatty acids, so we have to get them from food or supplements. When it comes to sources of these fatty acids, there are two major types in our diets: those that come from plant-based sources, and those that come from fish and seafood. Alpha-linolenic acid (ALA) is a plant-based omega-3 found in green leafy vegetables, seaweed, and some nuts and seeds. Eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) are long-chain polyunsaturated fatty acids that come from marine-based sources, like fish and algae. DHA is a particularly important omega-3 fatty acid in the brain, where it’s found in high concentrations.

How do omega-3s help brain development?

Brain development begins the first week of pregnancy and continues throughout childhood. During pregnancy, DHA travels through the placenta to your baby, supporting the growth of your baby's brain and tissues1. After birth, it’s transferred through breastmilk and in the event the infant is formula fed, most formula is fortified with omega-3. Given their important role in the healthy development of the brain, eyes and nerves in children a lot of research has been dedicated to this topic.   

Why omega-3 supplements?

Unfortunately, many children do not regularly consume direct sources of EPA and DHA. From busy schedules to picky eaters, the realities of family life can sabotage the best of intentions. The good news is that supplements can make boosting your child’s omega-3 intake easier. They’re easily mixed into kid-friendly staples such as yogurt, salad dressing or smoothie. Plus, there’s a growing variety of flavoured options available, so you don’t need to worry about a fishy aftertaste.
 
We’re proud to offer ultra-pure, great-tasting omega-3 supplements for the whole family. Our NutraSea Kids products are specially formulated for children with a blend of EPA, DHA, GLA and vitamin D in just one yummy teaspoon per day.