Omega-3s and your child

Some health-related headlines are better passed off as yet another health fad, or one more thing inciting panic in parents all over the world. However, there's a body of substantial literature in support of getting one's daily dose of omega-3s, particularly where your little ones are concerned.

Studies have shown that kids who have low levels of these essential fatty acids were more likely to exhibit learning disorders, behavioral issues or attention deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), according to the University of Maryland Medical Center. Though the same research concluded that more work needed to be done in order to prove that additional intake of omega-3s could remedy these symptoms, parents might want to take note.

"Pretty much everybody's diet is deficient in omega-3s," David C. Leopold, MD, director of integrative medical education at the Scripps Center for Integrative Medicine in San Diego, told WebMD.com. "I think that's why adding them back in seems to have so many health benefits. We're just balancing out what's normally there."

Babies need an adequate amount of this nutrient right from the start – which means making sure that your baby's formula contains enough omega-3 fatty acid DHA as well as being mindful of how much of the nutrient your pregnant wife is getting through her prenatal diet.

Experts suggest that kids who get enough of their omega-3's may have a lower risk for developing asthma, ADHD, depression, diabetes and impaired cognitive development in general – what's not to love?