With an increasing awareness on healthy living, more and more people are becoming interested in ways to live better and have a healthier body and mind. Fish oil has long been touted for its heart-healthy benefits, and it is natural to want to pass some of these same benefits on to your children. Although some supplements are unsafe for children, fish oil is one that is safe for use in little bodies, as well.
Cardiovascular Benefits
The American Heart Association suggests at least two servings of fatty fish per week. This includes fish such as salmon, herring, trout and even sardines. These two servings give the body enough omega-3 fatty acids, or fish oil, to help fight coronary artery disease and other heart problems. Many people find it difficult to get in the recommended servings of fish due to dietary preferences, hectic eating schedules or other issues. This is where fish oil capsules can come in handy. Supplementing your diet with omega-3 fish oil capsules can replace the fish oil you would have otherwise obtained from eating fish.
Mental Benefits
While fish oil capsules are best known for their cardiovascular system-related benefits, there are other benefits to be had as well. The MedlinePlus Medical Encyclopedia reports that fish oil can also be used as a supplementary treatment for depressive conditions, psychosis, ADD/ADHD and even Alzheimer's Disease.
Benefits of Fish Oil for Kids
Children are able to reap the very same benefits from fish oil that adults can. Fish oil is especially recommended for children with attention disorders, as it can help to create more focus and calm hyper little bodies. ADDitudeMag.com, an online resource for people living with and caring for someone with an attention deficit disorder, recommends a daily fish oil capsule to help curb symptoms. The magazine cites a research study published in May 2005 in Pediatrics, in which the authors suggested that a lack of certain polyunsaturated fatty acids may be contributing to issues such as ADD/ADHD and dyslexia.
Child-Friendly Fish Oil
Purchase fish oil capsules from your local drugstore or health food store that are designed especially for children. Many manufacturers make chewable tablets designed to make fish oil supplements less of a chore for younger, more picky, children.
Children and Fishy Diets
Fish oil can also be obtained through a healthy diet. Just as adults can get the recommended amounts of fish oil through eating fatty fish a couple of times a week, so can children. While fish oil supplements are a safe and wise choice for children, there is no substitute for the real thing.
Take the time to prepare meals containing fully cooked fish for your little ones throughout the week. Not only are you feeding their bodies with some of the essential vitamins and minerals they need to stay healthy, but you are fueling their minds at the same time.
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