By Gina Jaeger, PhD
Last reviewed on June 17, 2019
Getting children to eat healthy is a familiar struggle for many parents—and often a losing battle at that. We all know that kids need adequate nutrients to function optimally, but knowing which nutrients they need (and importantly, how much they need) is often a different story. Fortunately, scientists have done most of the legwork for us.
Decades of research have established the benefits of omega-3 fatty acids eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) for children’s cellular structure and function, neurological and cognitive development, and immune health.1 However, despite their importance for children’s health, recent data from the Center for Disease Control and Prevention indicates that the EPA and DHA intakes of American children are well below recommended levels.2 As a result, American children are at risk for a number of suboptimal health and developmental outcomes.1
EPA and DHA are necessary for normal growth and development
Childhood is characterized by periods of rapid growth and development. Because EPA and DHA are foundational nutrients that take part in many of the structural and functional activities occurring within cells, they are considered necessary for normal growth and development. (See “An Introduction to Omega-3 Fats” for more information on the effects and benefits of omega-3s.) The significance of obtaining sufficient EPA and DHA during childhood is illustrated by research studies showing positive benefits when omega-3s are abundant in supply, and negative consequences when omega-3 levels are lacking.1,3
