Is It Okay For Teens To Take Omega-3s?

Omega-3 fatty acids are vital for several functions in the human body, such as producing cell membranes in the brain, regulating blood clotting and contributing to cognitive and behavioral function. However, the human body cannot produce omega-3 fatty acids. As such, everyone, including teens, must get these healthy fats from food sources such as coldwater fish, walnuts and flaxseeds in order to reap their benefits.

Improved Cardiovascular Health

Teens who are obese or who have diabetes are more at risk for cardiovascular problems than their peers who do not have these conditions. Omega-3 fatty acids can improve some of the risk factors that lead to heart disease, including high blood pressure. A Danish study published in the "Journal of Pediatrics" in September 2010 found that adolescent boys who took 1.5 g of fish oil for 16 weeks experienced reductions in both systolic and diastolic blood pressure. Their levels of high-density lipoprotein (HDL) -- the "good" cholesterol -- also increased. HDL cholesterol helps to suppress the "bad" low-density lipoprotein, or LDL, cholesterol that increases the risk for cardiovascular disease.

Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder

About 5.4 million children between the ages of 4 and 17 years have attention deficit disorder, reports the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. According to a Swedish study published in the "Journal of Attention Disorders" in March 2009, omega-3 fatty acids help to relieve symptoms of attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) in some children between ages 8 and 18, Some children experienced a 25 percent reduction in ADHD symptoms, and 47 percent continued to experience these improvements at six months.

Skin Disorders

Taking omega-3 fatty acids may also help to improve your teen's skin. Teens can develop a range of skin disorders such as acne, eczema and psoriasis and taking omega-3s may enhance treatment. For instance, omega-3 fats, especially eicosapentaenoic acid, or EPA, may make topical corticosteroids more effective in improving psoriasis, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center.

Amount

It's best for teens to get omega-3 fatty acids from food, as there's no established dose for children 18 years and younger. Serve your teen up to 12 oz of fish such as salmon, shrimp, mackerel, herring, sardines or halibut weekly. Do not serve fish high in mercury such as swordfish, shark or marlin. Consult your family physician about giving your teen omega-3 supplements. Also, encourage teens to eat a small handful of nuts or seeds, or a mixture of both, daily.

Side Effects

Omega-3 supplements in the form of fish oil or fish oil capsules can cause side effects such as abdominal bloating, heartburn and indigestion. They can also increase blood glucose levels, which is a particular concern if your child has diabetes. Also, high doses can interact with medications, such as high blood pressure or blood-thinning drugs. Pregnant or breastfeeding teens should also consult their doctor before using omega-3 fatty acid supplements.