Fish oil contains omega-3 fatty acids, which have been proven to have many health benefits for people of all ages. These essential fatty acids are especially important at a young age, when cognitive, heart and eye development is at its peak.
Source
are not produced by the body, so it is important to get these essential fatty acids through the diet. Parents can add these fatty acids to their toddler's diet through fish sticks, salmon patties, or by adding a supplement such as flaxseed oil, to their daily food. Children should get between 300 and 350 mg of fish oil per day.
Types
There are several varieties of fish oil. Eico sapentaenoic acid (EPA) and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) are both types of omega-3 fatty acids that can be acquired through eating fatty fish such as salmon. Alpha-linolenic acid (ALA) is also a type of omega-3 that comes from plants such as flax. Omega-6 is also an essential fatty acid that is obtained through sources such as walnuts and vegetable oil.
Warning
As with anything, it is important to have balance. Fish oil can have the opposite effect on toddlers if taken in excess, or if the consumption of omega-6 outweighs the amount of omega-3. If essential fatty acids are already being ingested through the diet, it is not necessary to take additional supplements.
Considerations
Some fish do contain high mercury counts, which could be harmful to a toddler in large amounts. For this reason, toddlers should not eat fish more than twice a week to limit this risk.
Fun Fact
Salmon and tuna have lower levels of mercury as well as higher levels of omega-3.
Tags: essential fatty, fatty acids, essential fatty acids, fatty acids, omega-3 fatty