Omega-3 is a golden nutrient for the comprehensive development of children. But is it really necessary to supplement omega-3 too early? At what age should children supplement omega-3? Let’s find out through this article to make the best decision for your baby.
Omega-3 is one of the essential nutrients for the comprehensive development of young children, especially in the early stages of life. This is a fat that cannot be produced by the body, so it needs to be supplemented from the diet or specialized products. However, at what age should children be supplemented with omega-3 and how to do it is always a question that makes many parents wonder.
At what age should children start supplementing omega-3?
Children need to be supplemented with omega-3 throughout their development. In particular, foods rich in omega-3 should be regularly integrated into the diet from the very beginning.
For specialized omega-3 products such as fish oil or capsules, children from 1 year of age can start using them. For children under 1 year of age, omega-3 supplementation usually comes from breast milk or specially designed formula products. However, some omega-3 products are made specifically for infants. In this case, parents should consult a doctor to ensure that it is suitable and safe for their baby.
At what age should children start taking omega-3 supplements? This is a question many parents ask.
How long should children take omega-3 supplements?
Omega-3 supplementation is a long-term process and does not bring immediate results. Experts recommend that children should be supplemented with omega-3 in each period lasting from 1 to 3 months, then stopped for about 3 months before continuing. This helps the child’s body absorb and use omega-3 effectively without causing excess.
For foods rich in omega-3 such as salmon, mackerel, chia seeds or flax seeds, parents can include them in their children’s menu regularly and long-term, suitable for their development needs throughout the growing process.
Safe dosage of omega-3 for each age stage
Each child has different omega-3 needs depending on age, physical condition and activity level. Below is the recommended safe omega-3 supplement level for children:
- Children under 12 months old: Need 0.5g of omega-3 per day. Normally, the amount of omega-3 needed at this stage can be fully provided through breast milk or formula.
- Children 1 – 3 years old: The need increases to 0.7g per day. This is the time when children start eating solid foods, so foods rich in omega-3 such as salmon, walnuts or flaxseed oil can be added to the diet.
- Children 4 – 8 years old: The recommended amount is 0.9g of omega-3 per day. At this stage, children can consume a variety of food sources and use omega-3 supplements in the form of fish oil or syrup, but must comply with the prescribed dosage.
Consult your doctor to know the exact dosage of omega-3 supplements your child needs.
To ensure safety and effectiveness, parents should consult a doctor or nutritionist before supplementing omega-3, especially when using functional products.
Effects of omega-3 deficiency or excess
Omega-3 deficiency
If the diet is not enough omega-3, children may experience many health problems:
- Poor development: Omega-3 plays an important role in the development of the brain, eyes and nervous system. Omega-3 deficiency can affect children’s memory, concentration and physical development.
- Poor cardiovascular system: Omega-3 helps regulate blood sugar levels and reduce cholesterol, contributing to reducing the risk of cardiovascular disease.
- Impaired immunity: As a natural anti-inflammatory, omega-3 deficiency can make children susceptible to infections such as colds and sore throats.
Diets lacking in omega-3s can cause children to have many health problems.
Excess Omega-3
Although omega-3 is a benign nutrient, overdosing on omega-3 can also cause unwanted side effects, including:
- Digestive disorders such as diarrhea, nausea or constipation.
- Reduced blood clotting ability, leading to easy bleeding or bruising.
- Irritating reactions, causing redness or itching.
The best time to supplement omega-3 during the day
If omega-3 is supplemented through food, children can use it in all meals. However, for functional foods, the ideal time to use it is during or right after meals.
Supplementing omega-3 in the morning helps children’s bodies optimally absorb nutrients and provide the necessary energy for the whole day. In addition, taking omega-3 in the evening can improve sleep quality, helping children sleep deeper and better.
Supplementing omega-3 in the morning helps children’s bodies absorb nutrients optimally.
Supplementing omega-3 for children is an important step in their comprehensive development journey. Whether through natural foods or specialized products, parents need to understand the dosage, time and appropriate way to supplement. Consulting a medical expert is always the best way to know at what age children should supplement omega-3 and ensure safety and effectiveness in taking care of children’s health.
