Although many diet plans emphasize reducing fat intake, the body does need a certain intake of fat to function well. Essential fatty acids need to be in the diet, as the body cannot make them. Two types of essential fatty acids, known as omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids, are especially important for children.
Functions
Children need both omega-6 and omega-3 fatty acids for healthy growth and development. Omega-6 and omega-3 fatty acids are important for brain development, the University of Maryland Medical Center says. These fatty acids are also needed for bone health, metabolism regulation, the reproductive system and the stimulation of skin and hair growth.
Sources
Omega-6 fatty acids are primarily found in vegetable oils in the form of linoleic acid. Omega-3 fatty acids can also be found in some vegetable oils, such as those made with soy, canola and flaxseed. These fatty acids can also be found in fatty fish such as mackerel, herring and sardines and walnuts.
Omega-6 and Omega-3 Imbalance
A problem that affects many North Americans, including children, is an imbalance of omega-6 and omega-3 fatty acids. Ideally, children consume a diet that has equal levels of omega-6 and omega-3 fatty acids. But the typical North American diet is skewed toward omega-6 fatty acids, the Canadian magazine "Alive" reports. For many children in North America, the ratio of omega-6 to omega-3 fatty acids is as high as 30:1. This is due to consumption of processed foods, which contain sunflower and safflower oils and are rich in omega-6 fatty acids. Overconsumption of omega-6 fatty acids can interfere with the metabolism and use of omega-3 fatty acids.
Fatty Acids and Disease
Low levels of both omega-6 and omega-3 fatty acids have been linked to attention-deficit hyperactive disorder. This may be because of the influence these fatty acids have on the development of fatty tissue needed for neural function. Some studies have found that taking omega-3 fatty acid supplements, such as fish oil, can improve the symptoms of ADHD, although additional research is needed, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center. The effects of fish oil on asthma have also been researched, though the results of these studies have been mixed.
Fish and Mercury
Although omega-3 fatty acids can be found in high quantities in some kinds of fish, the American Heart Association recommends that children avoid eating fish that may contain significant levels of mercury, such as king mackerel, tilefish, swordfish and shark. Instead, children should consume up to 12 ounces of fish low in mercury, such as shellfish, catfish, canned tuna and salmon per week. Consuming more than this amount has the potential of causing mercury poisoning.
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