Pediatrics

Omega-3 fats are considered essential fatty acids, as they are critically important for long-term optimal health for both children and adults. Unfortunately, foods rich in omega-3 fats are largely absent in the standard American diet, thus children are often deficient in this nutrient.

Omega-3 fats, DHA in particular, are needed by every cell in the body and are vital for healthy brain and vision development. Fatty fish are the most plentiful dietary source of DHA and EPA; however, these fish can sometimes contain high levels of mercury and other heavy metals, and environmental contaminants like PCBs; and for this reason parents have often been advised to limit children’s fish intake.

We believe that the most compelling stories in nutrition science today are omega-3 fats and vitamin D. First, scientific evidence points that both nutrients are commonly deficient in American children. At the same time, both are easily treatable with supplements such as vitamin D and omega-3 fatty acids. We feel strongly that most children be considered for omega-3 fatty acids and for vitamin D supplementation. Of course there will be exceptions, and parents should check with their pediatricians.