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With the arrival of summer, many parents decide that the sun provides enough Vitamin D for their children's growth and stop giving them fish oil. But this valuable supplement is much more than a source of that vitamin.
It contains about 30% Omega-3 fatty acids, vitamin D, and a certain amount of vitamin A. It is rich in the essential Omega-3 acids EPA (eicosapentaenoic acid) and DHA (docosahexaenoic acid), whose benefits are numerous and cannot be replaced unless you eat oily fish at home at least once a week. So consider whether abundant sunshine is a serious enough argument to stop giving your children fish oil if they don't eat a balanced diet, and especially if they suffer from behavioral disorders or are hyperactive. Summer tends to intensify these conditions.
One of the arguments doctors make in favor of children taking fish oil during summer too is that they need at least 250 mg of EPA and DHA acids per day, but in most cases get only about 50 mg. This affects their growth, behavior, mental development, sleep, and their ability to cope with illness. More boys than girls suffer from related disorders.
Prevention for an unbalanced diet
To address the shortage of valuable Omega-3 fatty acids in children's diets, it's recommended to increase intake of foods rich in them, as well as regular fish oil supplementation. Oatmeal and nut-based desserts for breakfast and between meals, pasta with tuna from clean waters, fish oil stirred into yogurt – chilled or in the morning – are the “tricks” parents use to meet the body's needs. Hard-boiled eggs and walnuts – in sweets or as a snack – also provide the needed Omega-3 power. This is a good way to partly offset the harm from the processed foods, juices, drinks, and desserts that tempt little ones outdoors in summer.
For preventing behavioral disorders and stress
Summer vacation brings many new experiences and adventures, and children prone to or already showing behavioral disorders are more vulnerable. Omega-3 fatty acids are important for brain development, especially in the early years. Taking fish oil improves symptoms such as hyperactivity, inattention, impulsivity, and aggression in children when they're exposed to more excitement. High temperatures don't make things easier for sensitive children, so rely on foods and supplements that positively support their reactions. This also helps with better learning at the start of the school year, when attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), including inattentiveness, tends to worsen.
Store fish oil properly in summer
Proper storage is extremely important for preserving the nutritional properties of fish oil, especially in summer. For the youngest children, choose the liquid form of the supplement. Light and heat speed up its oxidation, so be sure to keep it in the refrigerator. Once you open the bottle, you should use the oil within 3 months. If it becomes cloudy and thickens, simply shake the bottle gently before use.
Capsules are stored at room temperature, but out of direct sunlight. They are suitable for children over 6 years old.
If you combine foods rich in Omega-3 fatty acids with fish oil during summer, you'll cope more easily with emotional outbursts, even in children without any particular issue, and offset the harm from excess sweets or junk food during the holidays. Rely on fish, eggs, and more nuts, and your children will be Omega-strong and healthy!
