Flaxseed oil provides a significant dose of omega-3 fatty acids, making it a healthy addition to most diets. Omega-3 fatty acids support brain health and may help prevent heart disease. Adding flaxseed oil to your child's diet can be beneficial, but too much can cause a laxative effect.
Dosage
A safe dosage of flaxseed oil is 2 tsp. per day for toddlers, according to AskDrSears.com. OIder children can have 1 tbsp. per day. These dosages are appropriate to treat constipation. Before giving your child flaxseed oil, check with your physician.
Side Effects
For most children, consuming too much flaxseed oil will simply cause loose stools. If your child takes medication for a specific health condition, flaxseed oil may slow the absorption rate. Flaxseed oil should not be taken in conjunction with blood-thinning or blood-sugar lowering medications.
Considerations
Your body must convert the ALA omega-3 fatty acid found in flaxseed oil into DHA to make it biochemically available to your cells. Children's bodies are not as capable of this conversion as adults, so they may not benefit significantly from flaxseed oil in the diet. Fatty fish, such as herring, sardines and salmon, already contain DHA and may be a better addition to your child's diet.
Options
To make flaxseed oil more palatable to your child, mix it into smoothies or hot cereal. You can also purchase flaxseed oil capsules that will indicate proper dosage on the label. Store flaxseed oil in the refrigerator to discourage spoiling and use within six weeks of purchase.
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