EFAs involved in child development

EFAs in pregnancy

Post Partum Depression.    DHA is essential for normal brain development. During pregnancy, the baby will take his or her quota first, leaving the mother with what's left -this is considered to be a major cause of post partum depression. The expectant mother should take a dietary supplement of marine oil, flax oil or ground flaxseed.

Behavioral problems in Younger Children in Family.   Studies show that as their mother's supply of EFAs become more and more depleted, each baby in the womb obtains fewer EFAs from his/her mother than the baby before. Research suggests that the reason why younger children in large families often have behavioral and developmental problems is not because they are 'spoiled', but because they don't get all the brain fats (EFAs) they need for normal development. This may also be why the oldest children tend to be the most intelligent - their brain is more optimally developed because of the best supply of EFAs during their development.

PrematureBirth, Low Birth-Weight and Hyperactivity in Children.   Researchers are now linking these problems to inadequate intake of omega-3 fats during pregnancy.

EFAs after birth

Breast Milk.    EFAs in breast milk obtained from mother's diet influence structure and function of baby's retina and central nervous system.

EFAs for Growing/Developing Children

Not yet available