Fish oil is an excellent source of omega-3 fatty acids, docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) and eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA), while flaxseed oil and algal oil excellent sources of alpha-linolenic acid (ALA), which are the precursor to DHA and EPA. ALA is an essential fatty acid that our bodies can not produce these fatty acid means.
Our body has a limited ability to convert, ALA to EPA and DHA. This is especially true in children with ADHD. In fact, studies have shown that many children with ADHD have very low blood levels of omega-3 fatty acids. This deficiency is associated with autism, ADHD, dyslexia, apraxia, depression and anxiety. In recent years, researches and studies that omega-3 fatty acid supplementation ADHD symptoms such as hyperactivity, inattention, aggression, anxiety, impulsivity, and learning disabilities have shown improved. Males, in particular, have a harder time converting ALA into DHA and EPA than females.
Furthermore, to make the typical American diet that is excessive in omega-6 and omega-3 fatty acids in deficit, the situation is even worse. The optimal omega-6 to omega-3 ratio is 4:1. The typical American diet has a ratio of 20:1. This means that the children need to increase their dietary intake of omega-3-5-fold to obtain the optimal ratio of 4:1.
DHA vs. EPA Both DHA and EPA play an important role in the development of the brain. DHA has a structural role and EPA has a functional role in the development of the brain. EPA affects hormone metabolism, dopamine (neurotransmitter that regulates mood) metabolism and immune system. DHA is the most important structural component of nerve cells. DHA is also an important part of the retina in the eye.
As the brain develops more nerve cells, more fat is needed in the form of fatty acids. Omega-3 fatty acids make up approximately 8-10 percent of the brain tissue. There are the main components of myelin sheaths on nerve cells. Myelin is a fatty coating on nerve cells. The myelin sheaths insulate nerve cells (imagine, electrical installation) on smooth, uninterrupted transmission of impulses, avoiding misfiring of nerve impulses. The rapid myelination during early childhood is what helps the brain develops.
Because of the special needs of infants and young children fat should not be restricted. Infants and children up to 2 years old should a diet of up to 50% of calories from fat.
Healthy fats such as avocado, safflower oil, olive oil, organic animal fats, organic eggs, coconut oil, and organic nut be encouraged. Bio oils / fats are preferred because pesticides, hormones, and other chemicals to accumulate in adipose tissues in animals and / or plants. The organic elections will help to minimize the intake of these substances can affect brain development and health.
Both fish oil and cod liver oil contains omega-3 fatty acids, EPA and DHA. But cod liver oil has a higher EPA content, and it also contains vitamin A and vitamin D, increase immunity, help fight infection.
Fish oil is a better choice for children struggling with dyslexia and attention for its higher DHA content. Cod liver oil would be a better choice for children with autism, frequent infections, mood swings and / or depression.
Fish oil and its components have been extensively studied. Its safety record is excellent. In fact, it is also included in most infant formulas today, and recommended to help pregnant women with visual and brain development. Try it....
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