Do children need to take fatty acid supplements (including Omega-3)?

Stacy Wiegman, PharmD

Pharmacy

Children under 18 should not be given fatty acid supplements (including Omega-3), unless recommended by a doctor.

Continue Learning about Omega 3 Fatty Acids

The keys to a young and healthy smile may be brushing and flossing -- and eating plenty of fish. In a study, people consuming the highest amounts of ...

Samantha Heller, RD

Fish such as salmon, mackerel, sardines, flounder and halibut are all good sources of omega-3 fatty ...

Stacy Wiegman, PharmD

Yes, since there are certain medications that omega-3 fatty acids can interact with, you should tell...

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Important: This content reflects information from various individuals and organizations and may offer alternative or opposing points of view. It should not be used for medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. As always, you should consult with your healthcare provider about your specific health needs.

Omega 3 Fatty Acids

Fish oils, grains and lamb are good sources of Omega 3 fatty acid, a nutrient that has a lot of buzz as being beneficial in the reduction of coronary artery disease. It's also been linked in studies to helping sufferers of rheumatoid arthritis. Flaxseed oil is another good source of this acid. Much research is being done on this nutrient, assisted by the fact that the Japanese diet typically has 10 times or more of the nutrient than the American diet. Some studies have also shown a reduction in colon cancer related to Omega 3 fatty acid consumption. Not everyone is able to reap the same benefits from Omega 3's however - one study shows that women with type 1 diabetes do not have a reduction in coronary artery disease with a diet high in this ingredient.

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