Does my toddler need a DHA supplement?
Getting the right DHA levels for your child in the initial years (1-3) is important for brain development - find out why. Presented by Scott’s
When we think about enhancing our children’s learning as early as possible, we turn to puzzles, sensory activities, and music. Another vital area of focus we shouldn’t neglect is nutrition.
Did you know that most of your child’s brain growth is completed by the age of 6?1 That’s why it’s crucial to include brain-nourishing nutrients, such as DHA,2 in your little one’s diet.
What is DHA and why is it important?
Recognized as an essential element for a healthy brain, this polyunsaturated Omega-3 fatty acid assists in your child’s brain development and healthy eyes. This is beneficial for our children especially during their growing up years.
Getting the right DHA levels for your child
DHA supports early brain development,4 so be sure to include it in your little one’s diet from the start. Aim towards the World Health Organisation (WHO) recommended daily amounts5 of:
- 10-12mg/kg of DHA for children 6 months to 2 years of age
- 100-150mg of EPA + DHA for children 2 to 4 years of age
Feed him or her oily fish such as tuna and salmon, which are high in Omega-3 levels, and add in a DHA supplement.
Supplementing a balanced diet helps you monitor your child’s daily Omega-3 intake, so you can rest assured that you’re fueling his or her healthy brain development.
The right DHA product matters
While there are several DHA products available at drug stores, it is important to know which one suits your child. For older children, chewable tablets and gummies are a great option; but when it comes to toddlers, easy solutions come in the form of syrup or emulsion products.
Get 100% of your child’s daily DHA needs in one spoonful
Good news, mums! All the goodness of Omega-3 can be found in just one spoonful of Scott’s Emulsion Original, giving your child 100% of the daily recommended amount he or she needs.
Made from cod liver oil and containing Omega-3 fatty acids (DHA + EPA), Scott’s Emulsion provides 2x better DHA absorption for your child.6 The cod liver oil is evenly mixed throughout the emulsion, broken down into tiny droplets that are easier for your toddler to digest.7
Scott’s Emulsion Original also gives a daily boost of Vitamin A, Vitamin D, and Calcium
Scott’s Emulsion Original, available at most drug stores and supermarkets, can be given from 1 year upwards, helping to increase your child’s DHA intake early on.
References:
1 http://www.ant-tnsjournal.com/mag_files/18-4/18-4p231.pdf
2 https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3738999/
3 https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/11237197
4 http://college.unc.edu/2012/03/07/dha/
5 http://www.fao.org/3/a-i1953e.pdf
6 Based on results of IAUCO-10h value for DHA at 1.96 times greater with Scott’s Emulsion Original vs a non-emulsified cod liver oil, in a pharmacokinetics study in 47 healthy adults, to determine and compare the plasma Omega 3 (DHA & EPA) levels after ingestion of Scott’s Emulsion Original and a non-emulsified MAT.
7 https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/19465191
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