It’s clear enough that ensuring your baby is getting all the necessary nutrients is challenging. But they are extremely important for a little one as they directly affect one’s growth and development. Breastfeeding mothers don’t need to worry about additional food and supplements, but those who have started weaning should plan their child’s diet carefully in order to make it diverse and packed with different kinds of healthy elements they need.
What is Omega 3?
Omega-3 fatty acids are «healthy fats» which support overall health and proper development. Our bodies cannot produce enough of them, so people have to get them from food sources. There are several specific types of Omega-3s such as DHA and EPA (which are found in seafood) and ALA (found in plants). That’s why fatty fish (salmon, tuna and mackerel), algae, flaxseed and chia seeds should have their place in everyone’s diet.
Why is it beneficial for babies?
Omega-3 is an essential element at all life stages. You’ve definitely heard that adults are not getting enough of this nutrient, but that comes to young children as well. Let’s talk about the advantages of omega-3 for little kids:
1. It supports brain power
Brain power grows at its greatest rate during the first years of life. A little one should get enough Omega-3 as it’s necessary for the sensory, cognitive, perceptual and motor nerve systems development. DHA, one of the types of Omega-3, impacts a normal brain function. So, in the long run your little one will be better at problem solving, planning, memorizing and focused attention. Moreover, it supports normal IQ, thinking and learning, which is crucial when a child is exploring the world.
2. Improves sleep quality
If your little one has some sleep problems, he or she perhaps isn’t getting enough nutrients, and omega 3 can help make a difference. Poor sleep may be associated with lower blood levels of DHA. Studies have shown that children who get enough Omega-3 have fewer sleep interruptions.
3. Improves symptoms of ADHD
This abbreviation stands for attention deficit hyperactivity disorder. Children who suffer from it may be hyperactive, impulsive and they find it difficult to focus. Some experts claim that omega-3 supplements decrease these symptoms and improve memory and attention.
4. Is able to reduce asthma
It’s a chronic disease and, unfortunately, lots of kids suffer from it. The most common symptoms are coughing, breathing difficulties, chest pain, wheezing and others. Some studies show that omega-3 could reduce these symptoms and make a child feel better. DHA and EPA are specifically helpful for this condition.
5. Supports infant development
Parents may start supporting a baby with Omega-3 from the moment of birth and onwards. With this important nutrient a baby is more likely to gain proper weight and grow timely and happily. It’s helpful for a baby’s perception of the world, it increases energy to learn new things and strengthens immunity.
The right dosage
You have to consider the dosage of Omega-3 due to the child’s age. Breastfeeding mothers are lucky ones as they don’t need to worry whether the food is nutritious enough or not. While bottle-feeding (which is around 0-12 months) a little on need 0.5 grams of Omega-3 and high-quality organic baby formulas usually satisfy this need. For instance, HiPP baby formulas contain the right amount of Omega-3 and moms don’t need to look for other supplements.
While your little one turns 1 year old, he or she needs 0.7 grams of Omega-3 and the same stands up to 3 years old.
If your child doesn’t have enough fish, nuts, seeds and plant oils, he or she may require additional supplements. But this case should be discussed with your health provider as you surely don’t want to harm your baby, but only make one thrive.
Possible side effect
If your child consumes too much Omega-3, there might be some side effects. But of course, they are all individuals. So these are some of them:
- Unpleasant fishy aftertaste in mouth
- Nausea
- Diarrhea
- Headache
- Smelly sweat
- Bad breath
- Stomach upset
While considering all these benefits that Omega-3 provides for babies, you should understand that it is vital for a kid to get it. But keep in mind that every single decision should be discussed with a doctor, especially when it comes to dosage. So, do your best to make the baby’s diet healthy and safe.
