Benefits of Fish Oil for Children and How to Provide It Right

Provision of fish oil for children is now increasingly popular among the public. But supplementation should be ascertained first safe for children, then provide with the right dose.

Benefits of Fish Oil for Children and How to Provide It Right

Provision of fish oil for children has a goal to meet the needs of omega-3 fatty acids, which is very important for the body to function optimally.

Omega-3 Fatty Acid Content

Although still needs to be investigated further, various studies show the possibility of the benefits of omega-3 in children starting in the womb. Omega-3 will support cognitive abilities, including eye and hand coordination, focus and social skills. In addition, omega-3 in children can also reduce the risk of asthma.

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Actually the best source of omega-3 is the consumption of fish. Although some vegetables are green and olive oil also contains omega-3, but the amount is not sufficient.

However, not all fish that contain omega-3 is safe for children or pregnant women, because there is a risk of toxins, especially in large fish. Fish consumption should be no more than 340 grams per week. One of the toxins in fish that is mercury substances due to sea pollution, which can cause negative effects on the body.

To provide omega-3 intake, parents can provide fish oil for children who contain omega-3. In addition, there are various types of foods that are supplemented with omega-3s such as milk, juice, eggs, bread, cooking oil or other snack foods.

Note the Right Needs and Measures

This supplement is considered safe for most children. However, you should first consult with a pediatrician before giving. Also ask your doctor about the dose of fish oil supplements in the right child.

Provision of fish oil in children should be avoided in some special conditions, such as children who experience bleeding disorders, taking blood thinners or the like.

In addition, other conditions in children who are not suitable to consume fish oil supplements are children with weak immune systems and who are allergic to sea fish.

Tips Giving Fish Oil for Kids

Preferably, parents should not force babies or children to drink fish oil. Wait until they are ready. Because, forcing children to drink it can make them choke so that fish oil can enter the lungs (aspiration).

As a baby, omega-3 content can be obtained from breast milk, so that nursing mothers can eat fish, fish oil supplements, and then obtained by breast milk. Provision of supplements directly in children can be started since the child passed the age of 1 year, and in accordance with the advice of the doctor.

If your child does not like fish oil supplements, you can work around this by:

• Give fish oil for children in the form of chewable tablets, making it easier for consumption.
• If there is, choose fish oil that contains an interesting flavor, such as mint, cinnamon, or ginger, in order to taste fish oil disguised.
• Mix fish oil with honey.
• Give fish oil with a drink that has a sour taste.
• Add fish oil to your child's favorite food.
• Give fish oil regularly so that children are accustomed to consume them.

Fish oil for children is known to have many benefits to support growth. However, the consumption of fish oil for children should be through a doctor's consultation, to ensure the child benefits optimally and determine the right dosage.

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