Omega 3 fatty acids are a group of polyunsaturated, or healthy, fats critical to the body's health. The three fats---α-linolenic acid (ALA), eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA), and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA)---both promote development of the brain, eyes and nerves and may lower the risk of heart disease. While ALA is found in a variety of food sources, including canola oil, walnuts and bread, DHA and EPA can only be consumed from fish and algae. So, although children should be getting these nutrients on a daily basis, they may not be. A daily supplement designed for kids will provide them with the daily recommended amounts. Both fish and algae-based supplements are available; those parents concerned about the mercury that may be found in fish-based supplements can purchase a vegetarian brand.
Nutrition Now Children's Supplements Rhino Gummy Omega-3
Produced by Nutrition Now, this vegetarian omega-3 supplement made for children comes in a container of 60 chewy gummy fish in assorted fruit flavors that appeal to a child's playful side and weakness for sweet tasting food. Each chewable fish contains 120mg of ALA, EPA and DHA, 20 calories, 3g of sugar and small amounts of vitamins C and E. The proprietary omega-3 DHA blend is algae-based rather than fish-based. The source of sugar is corn-based glucose syrup, while the color of the fish is made from carrot blueberry juices and turmeric, and the tasty flavors are created from sucrose, fumaric acid and citric acid crystals.
Coromega Omega-3 Supplement
Coromega's Omega-3 supplement for children 5 years and older comes in two flavors: orange and lemon lime. Kids can drop the squeeze packets onto their tongues instead of having to chew gummy candy or swallow a pill. One box includes either 30 squeeze packs. The DHA is taken from deep, cold-water fish. The supplement is all natural; it contains no cane sugar or artificial flavors.
Nature's Plus Animal Parade
Nature's Plus Animal Parade omega 3/6/9 children's fatty acid dietary supplement contains the omega 3 fat that children need, plus omega 6 and 9 fat---the other two types of healthy omega fats that work in combination with omega 3 to process all three groups of fat in the body. The fats are derived from fish oil, non-genetically modified cold-pressed borage oil, flax oil and extra virgin olive oil. The softgel pills need to be swallowed, so parents should only purchase this brand knowing that their child will not chew them. This brand contains no artificial colors, and meets strict government safety standards for heavy metals and toxins.
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