High DHA levels aid in learning and mental development of school children

Aug 27 2009

Getting ready for the start of a new school year traditionally means shopping trips for crisp, new clothes and backpacks bursting with fresh school supplies. But how do you prepare your child mentally and physically for the demands of hectic schedules and endless homework? It's easy for children, be it primary graders or teenagers, to anticipate the beginning of class with both excitement and some anxiety. These stress factors can quickly turn to feelings of being overwhelmed and frustrated as schoolwork and activities intensify. It's a cycle that can start in kindergarten and continue straight through to high school and beyond. Creating an ongoing wellness game plan to support your child's optimal mental and physical health can be as easy as 1, 2, 3.

"Growing bodies and brains require specific nutrients to support their top performance. To give your kids a head start, you can easily incorporate some important health-building factors into your regular dietary routine," explains Michele Sevier, Doctor of Natural Medicine and independent advisor to nutrition house Canada. "We all know that reducing sugar and pop; getting rid of refined products and 'whites', such as flour, rice, pasta; and increasing the intake of fresh fruit and vegetable, whole grains and lean, quality proteins have sound nutritional benefits, but also key is making sure that your child's diet is rich in necessary healthy fats.

Essential fatty acids (EFAs) from omega-3 fish oil, and specifically their EPA and DHA content, have been the focus of intense scientific study in the last number of years due to their vast extent of health benefits. These healthy fats profoundly influence the overall development and health of the human body. EFAs are vital for the proper structuring and functioning of every single cell in the body.

In particular, DHA from omega-3 is a key building block for a healthy brain. This major structural fat supports brain and nervous system health, vision acuity, mood and the cardiovascular system. DHA is required in high levels to provide the necessary nutrients for optimal brain functioning, including learning ability and mental development.

Unfortunately, the modern creation and use of modified natural fats, such as trans fats and partially hydrogenated oils, in packaged and prepared foods displaces the natural DHA in the brain, thereby weakening the brain's architecture and affecting its electrical communication and activity. Furthermore, high consumption of these unhealthy fats and dietary lack of fatty fish rich in EPA and DHA leads to a negative imbalance of fatty acids and may be directly linked to hyperactivity, depression, and other mood disorders.

These brain-building fats are intrinsically beneficial for every phase of life - from infancy, toddlers, children, teens and adults. With regular, added consumption of fish and/or fish oil supplements, now available in a variety of pleasant-tasting formats, your family can increase its vitality and edge - and that's a no-brainer.

Source: NUTRITION HOUSE CANADA INC.