DHA helps kids grow healthy and smart

GIVING children the right nutrition during their developmental years is an integral step toward mental growth. To this end, foods rich in omega-3 fatty acids have been traditionally supplemented into a child’s diet for a variety of health benefits.

There are three main types of omega-3 fatty acids: alpha-linolenic acid (ALA), eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA), and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA), which are not produced by our bodies naturally and must be obtained from diet consumption.

These nutrients can be sourced from eating certain fish, such as tuna, mackerel and sardines, or supplements containing extracted fish oils.

Improved cognitive function

DHA has historically been linked to improved cognitive function, academic performance and mood regulation.

According to Docosahexaenoic Acid for Reading, Cognition and Behavior in Children Aged 7–9 Years: A Randomized, Controlled Trial (The DOLAB Study) by PLoS ONE, DHA supplementation was found to improve other functions such as reading and behaviour control in underperforming yet otherwise healthy children.

The study also determined DHA to be safe and efficient for consumption when provided to children aged seven to nine with minimal to no side effects.

This is further supported by The Relationship of Docosahexaenoic Acid (DHA) with Learning and Behavior in Healthy Children: A Review published in Nutrients, where high levels of DHA in healthy children were shown to lead to improved performances in activities related to learning and behavior.

Stay protected from neurodevelopmental disruptions

Children at an early age are considered to be at the most malleable stage of their lives. During such a critical point of their development, it is natural as parents to wish our children a smooth transition into adulthood, free from medical conditions.

The study

Eicosapentaenoic and docosahexaenoic acids, cognition, and behavior in children with attentiondeficit/hyperactivity disorder: A randomized controlled trial published in Nutrition observed hyperactivity, compulsive behaviours, difficulty in class, social issues and other attention-deficit/ hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) symptoms to determine that increased levels of DHA had reduced overall symptoms of ADHD.

Adding omega-3-rich foods and supplements, particularly those rich with DHA, into children’s diets can be a safe and effective way to ensure that they grow up to be capable and healthy adults.

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