Omega-3 supplements seem to make children more nimble

Can Omega-3 really improve children's behavior?

There have been more and more conflicting statements recently about the effects of omega-3 supplements. Researchers have now found out that omega-3 supplements help children to behave better.

The scientists from the University of Massachusetts Lowell found in their current study that the intake of omega-3 preparations in children leads to improved behavior. The physicians published the results of their study in the English-language journal "Aggressive Behavior".

As a result, when children take omega-3 supplements, they become less aggressive, resulting in less conflict with their parents. (Picture: klickerminth- fotolia)

How does taking omega-3 affect children??

Adolescents who take Omega-3 supplements on a daily basis are less likely to object to given instructions and are less likely to steal and damage foreign property, say the experts. This makes it unlikely that the parents of these children argue with their offspring.

Omega-3 fatty acids improve brain health in children

It is believed that omega-3 fatty acids improve brain health in children and adults, said study author Jill Portnoy of the University of Massachusetts Lowell. There is much more to learn about the benefits, but if taking omega-3s can improve people's brain health and behavior, that is already a big plus.

Study had about 200 subjects

The study involved about 200 children, half of whom received a daily fruit drink containing 1 mg omega-3 fatty acids, while the remainder consumed the same drink but without the addition of omega-3 fatty acids, the researchers explain. The parents or caregivers of the children reported the behavior of the adolescents at the beginning of the study when the study ended at six months and again at 24 weeks thereafter. The study's findings help to clarify whether people are taking a path in life because of certain aspects of their genetic predisposition, or whether social factors are driving them.

Stress can promote aggressive and impulsive behavior

Of course, both of these factors have an influence. Biology and the social environment interact in a complex way that needs to be further explored, say the medical profession. The scientists want to investigate in future whether a low heart rate contributes to antisocial behavior. If you are exposed to chronic or frequent stress as a child, adjust yourself by lowering your heart rate, explains the study author. Protecting the lower heart rate by slowing down your response to stressful events can also lead to stimulation-seeking behavior. In other words, a stressful environment can cause physiological changes that lead to an increase in aggressive and impulsive behavior. (As)