Omega-3 Chews And Attention Deficit Disorder

By Author: Mr projects
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In recent years, the link between essential fatty acids and brain health has been researched, studied, and debated. While it is accepted that essential fatty acids found in fish, vegetable and nut oils, and flax seeds have a positive impact on brain and eye development in children, there is still much discussion on whether EFAs are a viable option for treating behavioral disorders. This article explores whether it is worthwhile for kids diagnosed with ADD to supplement their diets with omega-3 chews as an alternative to other medications.

What Are Attention Deficient Disorders?

Attention Deficit Disorder (ADD) and Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) are conditions characterized by specific behavioral symptoms, including lack of focus, short attention span, forgetfulness, procrastination, and disorganization. Doctors believe that there is a strong genetic factor in the incidence of attention deficit disorders in families, with nutrition bearing heavily on the manifestation of symptoms. In particular, the ingestions of sugar and additives found in processed foods, as well as nutritional deficiencies, ...
... are known to exacerbate symptoms.

Studies Linking ADD And EFAs

Research suggests a connection between a deficiency in essential fatty acids and the symptoms of attention deficit disorder. As EFAs are crucial for healthy brain development, it is thought that a deficiency may result in the onset of ADD. In 2007, a study initiated by Massachusetts General Hospital concluded that omega-3 treatment can have a positive impact on children struggling with ADD and bipolar disorder. Nearly half of the 20 participants experienced a 30% reduction in symptoms over an 8-week period when treated with omega-3 supplements. What's more, there were no observable side effects. Recent studies have shown that children given DHA and EPA -- two of the most desirable omega-3 fatty acids -- demonstrated remarkable improvement in focus and overall school performance.

Are Omega-3 Chews a Viable Alternative To ADD Medications?

As researchers continue to explore the effect of essential fatty acids on children suffering from mental and behavioral disorders, it is difficult to conclude whether omega-3 chews are a reliable alternative to medication in all cases. While high-quality supplements certainly do not seem to pose any health risks for children -- and are preferable to fish oils, which may contain toxins and contaminants -- treatment of ADD should be approached holistically and will vary greatly for each child. However, because EFAs have been shown to improve concentration as well as cardiovascular health, including omega-3 chews as part of an overall health plan can yield great benefits to a child's mental and physical well-being.

Appropriate Dosage of Essential Fatty Acids For Children

Pediatricians recommend 500 mg of EPA and DHA for children aged six to twelve years, increasing to 1000 to 3000 mg for teenagers and adults. Because deficiency in EFAs is linked to mood disorders like depression and anxiety, as well as cardiac disease and inflammatory illness, it is highly recommended that both children and adults get their recommended dose of essential fatty acids in order to enjoy optimal health and avoid preventable disease.

IronKids provides specially formulated omega 3 chews, for children that help your kids to stay healthy and active.