Let’s dive into some seriously fishy business – omega-3 fatty acids! But hold onto your snorkels, because omega-3s cast a wide net, found in a variety of sources from the depths of the ocean to the heart of some plant-based foods. And these super fats aren’t just for grown-ups, they’re essential for the growth and development of your little ones too. From helping their brains stay sharp, to keeping their hearts beating strong, consider omega-3s the anchors of healthy, happy kiddos.
What are omega-3s?
They’re special kinds of fats that the body needs to stay healthy, especially when it comes to brain, heart, and immune health. With approximately 17 trillion cells contributing to your little superhero’s well-being, these fats also play a vital role in supporting cellular health by promoting cell membrane fluidity and flexibility. This results in better communication between cells. But here’s the catch, our bodies can’t make them on their own, so we’ve got to get them from our food or through quality supplements.
There are three main types of omega-3s:
Alpha-linolenic acid (ALA)
Consider ALA as your plant-powered omega-3. You can find it hanging out in foods like nuts, seeds, vegetable oils and certain veggies. However, our bodies aren’t very good at using ALA directly. As ALA is not easily absorbed or efficiently used by the body, it has to be turned into the active forms, EPA and DHA. But even then, it’s only converted in very tiny amounts.
Eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA)
Now, EPA and DHA are the rockstars of omega-3s. They’re naturally found in fish like salmon, mackerel, and tuna, and are readily absorbed by the body. This superior bioavailability means that EPA and DHA can get to work faster, supporting brain health, cognitive function, mood regulation, and heart health with maximum efficiency.
The benefits of omega-3s
Brain boosting fuel
Omega-3 fatty acids are like brain fuel for kids! One of its superstars, DHA, is found abundantly in the brain, specifically in the area which helps with learning, memory, and overall brain function. Research shows that getting enough omega-3s, especially during important growth periods like infancy and early childhood, can lead to better attention, behaviour, mood and cognitive skills in children.
Omega-3s have also shown promise in alleviating symptoms associated with attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). These healthy fats support brain function by improving communication between brain cells and regulating important chemicals called neurotransmitters. Think of it as giving the brain a boost, making it easier for kids to pay attention, control impulses, and stay calm.
Guardians of immune health
Just like superheroes protect the world from villains, omega-3s swoop in to safeguard your kids’ health. Omega-3s can strengthen the immune system by reducing inflammation in the body, which can help reduce the risk of chronic diseases such as heart disease, asthma, and even allergies.
Think of these essential fatty acids as the building blocks of cell walls, which are tiny protective barriers around each cell. When kids consume omega-3s, it’s like giving their cells a shield that makes them stronger and better at fighting off invaders. So, by including omega-3 rich foods and supplements into their daily routines, you’re helping their bodies stay supercharged and ready to tackle anything that comes their way!
Heart healthy heroes
Omega-3s help to lower levels of unhealthy fats in the blood, like triglycerides, which can clog up arteries and lead to heart problems if they get too high. But that’s not all, they have the amazing ability to reduce inflammation throughout the body, including in the blood vessels and arteries.
By keeping inflammation in check, these fatty acids help ensure that your kiddo’s heart stays strong and ready for action —whether they’re zooming around the playground, busting a move, or gearing up for a new adventure! Incorporating omega-3s in your little one’s diet, gives their heart the love and support it needs to stay strong and healthy for years to come.
Sleep time sidekicks
Bedtime battles wearing you out? Well, get ready to welcome the dream team. Omega-3s work their magic by boosting the production of serotonin, the feel-good hormone that helps calm the stormy seas of bedtime chaos.
With serotonin leading the way, omega-3s pave the path for melatonin, the sleep hormone that signals it’s time to hit the hay. These fatty acids play a crucial role in promoting healthy sleep patterns by regulating neurotransmitters, ensuring your little ones drift off to dreamland with ease and stay there all night long. Reach for these healthy fats to make bedtime a breeze for everyone!
A tasty twist on omega-3s kids will love
We get it – fatty fish and flax seeds might not exactly be at the top of your kid’s list of favourite foods right now. Ensuring your child gets enough omega-3s through diet alone might feel like an impossible task, but that’s where our kids’ supplements step in. They’re here to make it much easier (and tastier) to ensure your kiddos are getting all the nutrients they need to grow up healthy!
Kids Omega-Squeeze – A delicious, squeezable omega-3 supplement that promotes cognitive development and healthy immune function, with a boost of vitamin D3 for the development of healthy bones and teeth. Whether slurped straight from the spoon, blended into smoothies, or frozen into popsicles, it’s a fun way to support brain health, focus at school, and a strong immune system.
Try our Tangy Omega Bark recipe for a fun and refreshing treat bursting with omega-3s!
Kids Omega-Yum – A potent omega-3 supplement packed with 1275 mg of EPA + DHA in just ½ tsp to support cognitive function, mood, behaviour, attention span and healthy eyesight. Plus, it’s IFOS certified for top-notch quality and purity, so you can feel as good about it as your little ones do! With no fishy aftertaste, this formula is berry, berry good.
When it comes to omega-3s, it’s more than just a fishy business – they’re the ultimate sidekick for supporting healthy, happy, and resilient kiddos. Whether it’s boosting brain power, protecting their hearts, or bolstering their immune systems, these fatty acids have got your back every step of the way.
Sources:
Triglycerides: Why do they matter?
The Importance of Marine Omega-3s for Brain Development and the Prevention and Treatment of Behaviour, Mood, and Other Brain Disorders
Tangy Omega Bark
