Researchers express concern for low intake of Omega-3 EPA/DHA amongst
children
HALIFAX, March 5 /PRNewswire/ - A recent study published in the Journal of Nutrition found that most Canadian children are deficient in Omega-3 EPA/DHA. The study found that 78% of the children trialed were not receiving adequate amounts of Omega-3 EPA and DHA in their diets.
Researchers from the
Omega-3 EPA/DHA is essential at all stages of life. For infants up to the age of three, DHA is essential for the development of the brain and eyes. After the age of three, both EPA and DHA are important for cognitive function, and research suggests that it may improve behavior and learning disorders, including Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) and Developmental Coordination Disorder (DCD). Additionally research indicates that Omega-3 EPA/DHA may reduce inflammatory conditions such as asthma, childhood depression, and reduce the risk of type 1 diabetes.
The researchers from
Lori Covert, V.P. of Marketing & Communications for Ocean Nutrition Canada explained "This new study is really important because although research shows that awareness of the health benefits of Omega-3 EPA/DHA is high most people still do not consume enough fish. In fact, more than 80% of Americans do not consume at least two 4 oz servings of oily fish per week resulting in an Omega-3 EPA/DHA deficiency." Covert continued "That is why we have partnered with major food manufacturers to fortify every day foods with our tasteless, odorless Omega-3 EPA/DHA fish oil ingredient."
"For many years now infant formula has been supplemented with DHA so many parents are already aware of the health benefits associated with Omega-3 for their children. However, it's critical for parents to understand that children, and everyone for that matter, need both Omega-3 EPA and DHA from fish oil in their diet." Dr. Sears, Associate Clinical Professor of Pediatrics at the
About Omega-3
Omega-3 is an essential nutrient consisting of EPA (eicosapentaenoic acid), DHA (docosahexaenoic acid) and ALA (alpha-linolenic acid (ALA). The only natural source of Omega-3 EPA/DHA is oily fish. ALA is found in plants (such as flax and chia). However, it is important to note that only EPA and DHA contribute to the many health benefits associated with Omega-3. ALA can be converted into EPA and DHA, however, the body converts it very inefficiently (less than .31%) so it is not possible to derive any Omega-3 related health benefits from plant sources. Furthermore, although Omega-3 EPA/DHA is vital to overall good health, the human body cannot produce it on its own, so it is necessary to consume this nutrient by eating fish, or eating foods fortified with fish oil or by consuming fish oil supplements. For more information on the health benefits of Omega-3 EPA/DHA please visit www.meg-3.com
About Ocean Nutrition Canada Limited (ONC):
Ocean Nutrition Canada (ONC) is a privately held company, whose major shareholder is Clearwater Fine Foods Incorporated. Clearwater Fine Foods Incorporated is a diversified holding/investment company whose significant holdings include a controlling interest in Clearwater Seafood's Limited Partnership, the world's largest integrated shellfish harvester and processor.
ONC is a global leading supplier of Omega-3 EPA and DHA ingredients from fish oil... essential nutrients that have been scientifically linked to supporting heart health, brain health, and general wellness. ONC markets its MEG-3(R) ingredients into the Dietary Supplement and Healthy Food markets. To date MEG-3(R) ingredients have been included in over 40 billion servings of food and supplement products world wide. For more information on Ocean Nutrition Canada Limited visit www.ocean-nutrition.com, and for more information on the health benefits of Omega-3 EPA/DHA please visit www.meg-3.com.
About Dr. William Sears:
Dr. Sears, or Dr. Bill as his "little patients" call him, is the father of eight children, three of whom are doctors (two pediatricians and one general practitioner). Dr. Sears is also the author of over 40 books on childcare, most notably The Baby Book considered by many to be the ultimate "how to" guide to raising your child. Dr. Bill received his pediatric training at
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