Should I give my baby fish oil? In what cases and from what age is fish oil given to a child? Liquid fish oil for children: which is better

Strengthening the immunity of the child in all possible ways is an obsession with most parents. And among the available and “tested” means, fish oil is in the lead. Conservatives consider it almost a panacea. Their main argument is: “It was not for nothing that all the kids were fed with a miracle remedy in the days of the USSR.”

Indeed, it was so, the nasty mixture was voluntarily forced to be used in kindergartens until 1970. But is it necessary to give fish oil to children now that pharmacists have invented a lot of vitamin supplements and immune-boosting drugs? Moreover, due to the state of the environment, this natural supplement, obtained in the old way, has lost a number of useful properties. Modern versions are produced differently. There are about a dozen versions from different pharmaceutical companies in pharmacies. Which one is preferable? We offer answers to these and other thematic questions.

What are the benefits of fish oil for children? Indications and contraindications

The first fact that requires attention is composition. The most valuable components: polyunsaturated fatty acids (eicosapentaenoic and docosahexaenoic), vitamins of groups A (retinol) and D (ergocalciferol), antioxidants.

We emphasize the following nuance: this combination of useful substances is unique.

Since few parents understand the meaning of chemical terms, let's take a closer look at why children need fish oil.

• Docosahexaenoic acid is required for the development of the central nervous system and retina, stimulates blood circulation in the brain. The deficiency of this element in the body is associated with neurotic disorders, distracted attention.
• Eicosapentaenoic acid normalizes the level of gastric juice, enhances bile secretion, strengthens the immune system. With a shortage of her kids quickly get tired, become sleepy and absent-minded.
• A lack of vitamin D in the body is fraught with a terrible diagnosis - rickets. This component also improves blood clotting, which is necessary for cell development. Retinol is "responsible" for the condition of the skin, hair, nails, the functioning of the gastrointestinal tract and the respiratory system, and vision.

However, the indication for the use of fish oil by children is formulated by the only medical term - hypovitaminosis.

And now, attention list of contraindications:

• allergy to the components of the drug;
• hypercalcemia;
• hypercalciuria;
• endocrinological problems;
• acute skin inflammation;
• renal and hepatic pathologies;
• tuberculosis.

At what age can fish oil be given to children?

The instructions for the supplement in the form of capsules usually state: from 7 years old (less often - from 4). This moment is confusing to many. Questions arise: why is fish oil prescribed for children under 3 years old, and in some cases even infants?

Pediatricians allow the use of the liquid form of the agent in question from the age of one month. However, it should be given to babies strictly according to indications (with hypovitaminosis), and only in a dosage adjusted by physicians.

As an immunostimulant, use strictly in accordance with the instructions.

Fish oil, which is better: varieties and rules for use

First, let's make an excerpt from the classification.

1. The raw material for a valuable component can be:

- cod liver (it is undesirable to buy such an additive, since the primary source absorbs harmful components from the habitat);

- fish meat of different varieties (its contents, in comparison with the above option, are less useful, but not so toxic).

1. According to the form of release of dietary supplements, it happens:

- liquid;

- encapsulated.

These nuances + method of obtaining are indicated in the instructions.

Liquid fish oil Designed for children from four weeks of age. It is often recommended for babies born prematurely. An unpleasant feature of this form of release is a specific amber. Standard doses:

• the smallest: up to 5 drops in the morning and evening;
• from 6 months: a teaspoon per day, after a year the frequency of intake is increased to two times, from seven years to three.

Drink while eating. The duration of the therapeutic course is no more than three months. Nuances are adjusted individually.

From the age of 7 more often prescribed fish oil capsules. The benefits for children are the same as the liquid form, but this option is easier to dose and drink (there is no unpleasant odor). Minus - hard to swallow gelatin shell. One-time rate - 1-4 pieces (depending on packaging). The drug is given to babies immediately after meals, with plenty of water (table or filtered, room temperature). It is important to make sure that the child does not drive the capsule with his tongue, and does not chew it, but immediately swallows it. The minimum course duration is one month.

Doctors warn: this supplement is contraindicated in hypervitaminosis, does not combine well with barbiturates, glucocorticoids and anticonvulsants. An overdose negatively affects the mood and functioning of the main body systems.

Which fish oil to choose

So that readers do not get lost at the pharmacy counters, we offer an overview of the most popular options. Additionally, we provide information on average price indicators, reviews of parents.

Norwegian fish oil for children: Carlson Labs, Norsk Barne Tran (1100 rubles). These drugs are considered the best, environmentally friendly. Release form - syrup, the second drug contains lemon flavor and herbal extracts. Dosages are on the label. 85% of parents in the reviews rated these options with a solid "5".

Number 2 in popularity - "biter"- fish oil for children in the form of capsules. The price of a package (60 or 90 pieces of 0.5 g each) ranges from 200-300 rubles. The instructions indicate that dietary supplements must be absorbed or chewed. Contains tutti frutti flavor. 90 out of 100 parents in the reviews note a unique combination: benefits + availability + pleasant taste. The remaining 10 complain that the capsules have a slight aroma of fish, they advocate high prices.

Biafishenol- a cheaper version from a domestic manufacturer. The price of a package (100 pieces of 0.35 g each) is 125 rubles. Not everyone likes this option because of the dosing features. The daily norm for babies 3-6 years old is 12 capsules (4 pcs / 3 times). From the age of 7, the dose is doubled. Rated by parents at "4-".

Solgar- fish oil for children from the American brand-manufacturer of premium dietary supplements. The price of a bottle (100 pieces) is 2000 rubles. Capsules are made in the form of goldfish, in the composition there is a fruit additive. According to the reviews of 99% of users, he has only one minus - an overpriced price. Units complain that the shell is difficult to chew.

Finnish fish oil for children Moller(700-800 rubles) is a syrup without additives or with a slight lemon flavor (250 ml bottle). We rarely come across for sale. The main drawback is the lack of instructions in Russian. In this regard, there are misunderstandings regarding the dosage and shelf life. Doctors recommend acting according to the standard: give a teaspoon, keep in the refrigerator for no more than 3 months after printing.

Which drug to choose? Decide after consulting with your pediatrician.

INFORMATIVE:

The human body needs a certain balance of fats, proteins and carbohydrates every day. Each brick on which our food is built has a necessary and irreplaceable role to play. But sometimes a person, trying to lose weight, completely excludes fats from his diet. And this is fundamentally wrong. A low-fat diet is by no means healthy. And in order to make up for the missing proportion of nutritious fats in the body, it is necessary to take fish oil as a source of strength, youth, beauty and health.

What is fish oil

Fish oil is a product of animal origin. Fish oil is made from the natural fat of large marine fish, such as cod, mackerel, herring. Fish liver is usually taken for production. Fish oil is divided into brown, yellow and white. Brown fat - industrial (unfiltered), used for technical purposes as a lubricant. Yellow fat is partially purified, but is rarely used in medicine. And white fat is the one we take orally as a vitamin supplement.

How fish oil is obtained

The modern production of fish oil is not much different from the way Norwegian fishermen get it. The principle remains the same. Freshly caught fish is immediately sent for cutting. The liver is carefully and accurately cut out, the gallbladder is separated. The washed liver is placed in a large cauldron with a thick bottom, which is heated to 50 degrees. The liver is simmered over medium heat and high quality white fish oil is rendered from it. Then the fire is increased and yellow fat is obtained. Well, with enough high temperatures ah extract brown fish oil, which is not used for oral administration.

Fish oil is an incredibly healthy product that contains many important and necessary vitamins. For the first time, the benefits of fish oil were noted in Greenland. It was found that the inhabitants of the island, in the diet of which fatty fish was almost daily, had fewer heart diseases, they were more stress-resistant and efficient.

Fish oil is a storehouse of vitamins and saturated fats that fuel the body during difficult periods for it. Fish oil is taken during an exacerbation of viral diseases, as well as after an illness to restore strength. Fish oil is prescribed to children to adapt them to kindergarten to reduce the risk of frequent illnesses. We can talk endlessly about the benefits of fish oil, let's dwell on its main advantages.

1. Fish oil contains omega-3 fats, which are great for brain function. The constant intake of fat improves memory, develops intelligence and erudition.
2. Fish oil affects the functioning of the heart and blood vessels - it reduces the viscosity of the blood, which contributes to the formation of blood clots. Thus, the risk of a heart attack or stroke is reduced significantly. Regular intake of fish oil normalizes blood pressure.
3. Healthy fats speed up the metabolic processes of the body. This means that fish oil can be used as an ally against extra pounds.
4. Fish oil is good for men's health. Regular intake of fish oil helps to increase physical strength and endurance.
5. Fat inhibits the production of the stress hormone cortisol. The constant intake of fish oil normalizes the functioning of the nervous system, increases stress resistance.
6. Fish oil has a beneficial effect on the joints. It can be taken orally or as a rub. It is an excellent medicinal and preventive remedy.
7. Fish oil has been successfully used as a supplement for muscle growth and recovery after exercise. This is one of the components of sports nutrition.
8. Fish oil is also useful for women - after a few weeks of taking fish oil, the fair sex notes that the skin has become much smoother, hydrated and clean (without acne).
9. Fish oil contains vitamin A, which is an invariable component of our immunity. Vitamin A protects the body from inflammatory diseases and prevents the formation of cancer cells.
10. Fish oil is prescribed by doctors in a complex to maintain eye health.
11. Fish oil contains a sufficient amount of vitamin D, which the body needs for strong bones and a strong skeleton. Lack of vitamin D in the body can lead to rickets.
12. Fish oil contains antioxidants that prevent the aging process in the body. Therefore, fish oil is not only a means to maintain health, but also an indispensable cosmetic product for women.
13. Course intake of fish oil prevents the development of depression.

Fish oil in its natural form has an unattractive smell, shape and taste. For ease of use, manufacturers of vitamin supplements have changed the dosage form of fat and began to produce it in capsules. The small yellowish capsules are odorless, small and easy to swallow. However, to get the benefits of fish oil, you need to know how and how much to take.

1. The daily norm of this vitamin is 1000-2000 mg per day, which corresponds to 2-4 capsules.
2. You can not take all the capsules at once, you need to divide the daily rate into several doses.
3. Typically, the daily allowance for men is slightly higher than for women (by 500 mg).
4. Fish oil should be taken with or immediately after a meal. Do not take this vitamin supplement on an empty stomach - it can be harmful.
5. Salmon oil is considered the most useful, expensive and high-quality fish oil.
6. Fish oil should be taken periodically. One course of taking fish oil is about two months. After that, you need to take a break for a couple of weeks.
7. Usually, fish oil is taken in autumn or winter to protect the body from viral diseases.

How to take liquid fish oil

Liquid fish oil is less attractive, but no less useful than its gelatin counterparts. Many believe that such fish oil contains more benefits, since it has not been subjected to additional processing. The daily norm of liquid fish oil is 15 ml, which corresponds to three teaspoons. Liquid fish oil can be added to dishes as a dressing, sauces can be prepared from it only if you are not afraid of a light fishy flavor. However, remember that fish oil should not be exposed to high temperatures - it should not be fried, etc. Otherwise, it will simply lose all its useful properties.

Liquid fish oil should be stored in a glass container in the refrigerator with a tightly closed lid. It is best if the bottle is opaque. Feel free to throw away the expired product - there is no use in it.

Contraindications and harm of fish oil

Like any other product, vitamin or drug, fish oil has contraindications.

• It should not be taken if there is an excess of calcium in the blood.
• Fish oil is contraindicated in hypervitaminosis D.
• If there are kidney stones.
• For any liver disease.
• If you are allergic to fish oil components.
• Tuberculosis.
• Renal failure.
• It is dangerous for pregnant women and the elderly to take fish oil without a doctor's recommendation.
• Fish oil is contraindicated during breastfeeding.

For diseases of the gastrointestinal tract, heart disease, ulcers and other chronic ailments, it is imperative to consult a doctor about the intention to start taking fish oil.

Long-term use of fish oil can reduce blood clotting, so for any blood disease, you need to be careful with this vitamin supplement.

Fish oil is often prescribed to children as an auxiliary vitamin for increased mental and physical stress at school. Regular intake of fish oil helps the child to better absorb the material, to be more capable and assiduous. In addition, taking fish oil in the winter allows the child's body to be more resistant to viruses and infections.

Babies are prescribed fish oil against rickets, since most regions do not spoil us with sunny days. The daily dose of fish oil for babies of the first year of life is 2-4 drops several times a day. After a year, a baby can be given half a teaspoon a day, and from two years old - a whole spoonful. The student's dose should be at least two capsules or a tablespoon per day.

For children, special forms of fish oil are produced in the form of marmalades with a pleasant taste and smell. Most kids take them for candy.

Fish oil for weight loss

French scientists conducted an experiment among several thousand women. The study subjects were divided into two groups. They were offered the same food, not different from their usual diet. The first group was given fish oil after each meal, and the second group was given pacifiers, that is, a placebo. Two months later, it turned out that the representatives of the first group, on average, lost one kilogram, while the women of the second group did not change in weight.

In parallel with their French colleagues in 2015, a similar experiment was carried out at the Japanese University of Kyoto, only on mice. The mice were divided into two groups and fed them with fatty foods in the same amount. In addition, the mice of the first group were supposed to receive fish oil. After the experiment, it was found that the mice of the first group gained 25% less fat than the representatives of the second group of mice. Scientists have proven that fish oil promotes the production of substances that speed up the body's metabolic processes.

Fish oil has recently become a constant companion of successful weight loss. Indeed, in conditions of limited nutrition, the body does not receive the vitamins and fats it needs. Fish oil is a healthy hair and nails, clean and smooth skin and good health even with the toughest diet.

Since childhood, we associate fish oil with an unpleasant and tasteless substance that had to be drunk at the insistence of our mother. However, times have changed, and fish oil can be taken in a convenient and pleasant dosage form without losing its beneficial properties. Drink fish oil and stay healthy!

Video: how to use fish oil correctly

Fish oil has been used for 150 years. This natural product, unique in its composition, is a source of polyunsaturated fatty acids (omega-6 and omega-3) for the body, but they are not synthesized in the body itself.

According to statistics, the peoples whose main food is much less cardiovascular diseases.

Of course, you can get these essential ingredients from food. To do this, it is worth including in the child's diet up to 350 g per day 2-3 r. in Week. The most fatty acid-rich fish species are lake trout, tuna, salmon, herring, sea bass, mackerel, eel, haddock. It is not recommended to use katran. It belongs to the shark genus, feeds on waste and therefore contains toxic substances that are harmful to health.

They are walnuts, linseed and pumpkin seeds, oils (olive, linseed, soybean, rapeseed, pumpkin).

However, not in every family it is possible to use such varieties of fish so often. Yes, and fish can contain toxic substances due to pollution of the seas and oceans. The child will also not eat enough oils to provide the body with fatty acids. Therefore, you will have to be content with fish oil. The latter contains:

• polyunsaturated essential fatty acids (omega-6 and omega-3);
• oleic and palmitic acids;
• fat-soluble vitamins E,;
• trace elements (phosphorus, bromine, selenium, manganese, chlorine, magnesium, etc.).

Is fish oil good for kids?

The impact on the body of all these substances is very high, especially in childhood. Polyunsaturated fatty acids are involved in metabolic processes, dilate blood vessels, promote metabolic processes in brain tissues.

These changes improve brain activity, contribute to the mental development of the child, increase the intellectual coefficient. Children improve their ability to understand and better assimilate information.

Hyperactive children become more assiduous, the ability to concentrate increases. The baby develops fine motor skills of the hands faster. Children learn to write and read faster, get tired less.

Clinical observations have shown that babies lagging behind in their development for six months caught up with their peers after a three-month course of taking fish oil.

Psycho-emotional changes also become noticeable: fatty acids prevent stress. This effect is associated with the stimulation of the production of the biologically active substance serotonin, which is also called the hormone of happiness. Thanks to this, fish oil improves mood, which is especially important for depression in adolescence.

Modern guys are often addicted to fast food. A hamburger or a sandwich with sweet carbonated water contributes to metabolic disorders and the development of obesity. Fish oil will help lower the blood levels of these children, omega-3 will burn saturated fats and help normalize body weight. In many highly developed countries, fatty acids are added to products (margarine, butter).

The influence of fatty acids on the immune system is also invaluable: they strengthen the immune system, prevent the development of allergies, asthma, reduce inflammatory reactions, and increase resistance to infections. This action of fish oil is associated with the stimulation of the production of prostaglandins (fat-like biologically active substances with a diverse function in the body).

Fish oil vitamins are also quite beneficial for children. , for example, in infants prevents the development of rickets. In addition, it is necessary for the absorption and regulation of the metabolism of phosphorus and calcium. It is vitamin D that is responsible for the growth and mineralization of teeth and bones, the normal formation of the skeleton. With a deficiency of calciferol, the bones soften and deform, the formation of tooth enamel is disturbed, nervous excitability and convulsive readiness increase.

It is necessary for the good functioning of the organs of vision, the ability of night vision and the perception of the colors of the surrounding world. It eliminates fragility of hair and nails, improves the condition of the skin and mucous membranes of the digestive and respiratory systems. Retinol promotes wound healing when the skin is damaged.

Vitamin E has a pronounced antioxidant effect, that is, it neutralizes free radicals that are formed during metabolism, with allergies, and with an inflammatory reaction. Vitamin helps reduce the risk of developing malignant diseases. It is necessary for adolescents during the formation of sexual function. at this stage can lead to disruption of the menstrual cycle in girls and infertility in their future.

Which of the children is indicated for the use of fish oil?

Fish oil is approved for use by children of any age. On the features of its use in infants, see below.

Indications for the use of fish oil:

• prevention of rickets;
• violations of physical development, growth disorders;
• violation of neuropsychic development;
• hyperactivity of the child;
• frequent convulsions;
• memory impairment;
• attention deficit disorder in a child;
• often and long-term ill children;
• allergic diseases;
• visual impairment and eye diseases;
• depressive states;
• sleep disturbance;
• aggressiveness, irritability;
• hemophilia;
• hypovitaminosis (deficiency of vitamins A and D);
• obesity;
• congenital heart defects;
• decreased immunity;
• treatment of burns and wounds;
• postoperative period;
• dry skin.

In any of these conditions, fish oil will have a beneficial effect. But still, it is better to consult a doctor before starting to use it and agree on the dose and duration of the drug.

Are there contraindications for fish oil?

Despite the fact that fish oil is a natural product, the drug has contraindications.

These include:

• individual intolerance to fish and;
• congenital diabetes;
• increased thyroid function;
• diseases of the stomach;
• liver disease and gallstone disease;
• nephrolithiasis and renal failure;
• hypervitaminosis;
• chronic cholecystitis in the acute stage;
• chronic pancreatitis in the acute stage;
• vegetovascular dystonia with a tendency to low blood pressure;
• active tuberculosis;
• increased bleeding;
• severe injury.

Should I give fish oil to babies?

In the first year of a child's life, fish oil should be prescribed only by a doctor. This takes into account the closure of the fontanelles on the baby's head and the features of phosphorus-calcium metabolism. If you give the baby fish oil uncontrollably, then the fontanel may close early, which will negatively affect the development of the brain.

Formula-fed children need to prescribe fish oil, because. This threatens to lag behind in mental development in the future, especially in premature babies.

Therefore, if the child does not receive breast milk and it is too early for him to introduce fish into the diet, the only way out of the situation is to prescribe fish oil. The pediatrician specifically for each child will determine the dose of the drug and the duration of the course. It is usually prescribed from the age of 4 weeks of the child.

Which fish oil is best? How to choose it?

Fish oil is a clear, light yellow oily liquid with a characteristic taste and smell. Previously, fish oil was prepared only from the liver of fish (cod family). But the liver is an organ that accumulates harmful substances, toxins, poisons. And since the seas and oceans are currently heavily polluted, this also affects the quality of the fish oil obtained. Now, along with the previous method, there is another method for obtaining better fat: from a fish carcass by cold pressing.

These 2 versions of the product differ in their composition. There are no omega-3 fatty acids in liver fat, but the concentration of vitamins A and D is increased, and therefore it should not be taken for more than 3 months. Fatty acids, so necessary for children, contain better fat from carcasses. If necessary, it can be combined with any vitamin preparations.

Foods rich in unsaturated fatty acids (omega-3 and omega-6): fish, avocados, nuts, vegetable oils (linseed, pumpkin, olive). But not all of this is recommended for children!

Therefore, when buying fish oil, you should clarify the method of obtaining it. Of course, it is better to purchase a higher quality preparation obtained from the carcasses of oceanic fish. To verify the quality of the product, you should familiarize yourself with the certificate, which should indicate the raw materials for the manufacture of the drug (salmon carcasses, seal fat or whale oil, ocean fish meat). The type of fish also matters - shark fish are not a safe source of fat.

Pharmaceutics today offers not only liquid, but also encapsulated fish oil. Different opinions exist about the effectiveness of the drug, depending on the form of release - liquid or encapsulated. Preference should be given to the drug in capsules.

And the point is not only that the capsules rid the product of unpleasant taste and smell for all children. Upon contact with air, fatty acids lose their properties. To prevent this from happening, manufacturers add a significant amount of vitamin E as a preservative to the liquid form, and its excess is harmful to the body.

The pharmacy may offer a special fish oil for children. It differs in that any vitamins are additionally introduced into its composition. Before you buy this form of release of the drug, you should consult with a pediatrician about the need for this child of these supplements and the duration of their use. In addition, manufacturers can introduce flavoring additives (sweeteners and dyes) into children's forms. Before giving such fish oil to a child, it is advisable to make sure that these supplements are natural.

It is believed that fish oil from Norway is one of the highest quality and environmentally friendly, because in the seas where fishing is carried out, there are no toxins, salts of heavy metals, oil products (there are no industrial enterprises polluting sea water on the shores of these seas).

How to use fish oil for children?

Depending on the age of the child, you can choose a liquid or capsule form. It is better to give it to the child immediately before feeding (if the drug is in liquid form) or during meals (if it is in capsules). Liquid fat can be added to vegetable salad.

Some (few) kids like the taste of fish oil. If this is not the case, then, of course, it is necessary to choose a drug in gelatin capsules (provided that the child is already at the age that he can swallow the capsule). Then the baby will not feel any taste or smell of fat, which greatly simplifies the course of treatment.

Capsules can also be made from fish gelatin - such a drug is more useful, but its cost is higher.

Fish oil is also a drug, so its dosage and duration of treatment should be prescribed by a doctor. Even a type of fish oil (made from cod liver or fish carcasses) will be chosen by the doctor depending on the purpose of prescribing the drug: in the prevention of rickets, for example, the concentration of vitamins in the medicine is important, and in another case, the need for fatty acids may be higher.

The dosage and duration of fat consumption depends on the age of the child, and on the purpose of use (therapeutic or prophylactic). Of course, to obtain the desired result, it is necessary to give the child the drug daily, and not from case to case. The treatment course usually lasts 1-1.5 months. If necessary, the course is repeated after a 3-month break.

Fish oil can also be used externally to treat a burn surface or wound and to irrigate a dressing on a wound.

How should fish oil be stored?

Fish oil in liquid form should be packaged in dark glass bottles. In the light, fatty acids are broken down, and the drug loses its properties. The drug easily becomes unusable even at high temperatures, therefore, the drug should be stored only in the refrigerator at a temperature not higher than +10 ˚С. In the summer, it is better not to take it.

The vial after taking a single dose of the medicine must be tightly closed so that the fat does not deteriorate when air enters, otherwise the child may be poisoned. Be sure to pay attention to the date of manufacture of the drug.

Despite the fact that the shelf life of fish oil is 2 years, it is better to buy a newly manufactured preparation, otherwise it is impossible to guarantee that the rules for storing it and the temperature regime were not violated in the summer.

Is it possible to overdose on fish oil? Does it have side effects?

If you take the medicine on an empty stomach, loose stools may occur. To avoid this, fat should be consumed with food.

When taking fat made from fish carcasses, there is no overdose. The use of liver fish oil can lead to an overdose of vitamins with prolonged use of the drug, which can manifest itself in the appearance of loose stools, nausea, and abdominal pain. Exacerbation of chronic pancreatitis, chronic cholecystitis is also possible.

These phenomena are observed in rare cases and disappear when the drug is discontinued.

Summary for parents

Fish oil is a drug that has a multifaceted effect on the child's body. Its therapeutic and preventive effectiveness has been time-tested. This natural preparation ensures not only normal growth, but also the development of children, strengthens the immune system, and increases intellectual abilities. But, like any other medicine, fish oil should be given to children only as directed by a doctor, observing the dosage and duration of use.

Video version of the article:

The program "School of Dr. Komarovsky" tells about the benefits of fish oil, including for adults:

Every growing organism is in dire need of minerals and vitamins. Without sufficient intake of these substances, normal mental and physical development is impossible. Against the background of deficiency, immunity weakens, pathologies of the cardiovascular and endocrine systems develop, metabolic processes are disturbed. Fish oil for children, which even infants can take, will help improve health.

Statistics show that fish oil is the most popular dietary supplement in Russia and the CIS countries. The main production of this product occurs in the USA and Norway. In these countries, a huge number of the most famous and high-quality drugs are produced.

Norwegian sailors mostly specialize in the extraction of cod oil. From cod liver they are able to obtain three different types of product: white, red and brown. Fat mining looks like this:

In the USA, herring and other varieties of fish living in cold seas are used for fat burning. Most often it is mackerel, tuna, salmon, lamprey and many others. A useful substance is extracted from the fish mass, squeezing it out with giant presses. The resulting raw material goes through several stages of purification, after which it is suitable for medical use.

Composition and benefits for babies

The development of the future baby begins in the womb. After his birth, active reproduction and cell growth occurs during the first 16 years of life. To maintain the rate of cell division, a sufficient amount of building material is needed. The process involves polyunsaturated fatty acids, calcium, vitamins A, D, E and many others.

Fat derived from fish contains the following substances necessary for both infants and adolescents:

“Most doctors believe that fish oil can be given to babies from a very early age. This should not be done without prior consultation with the pediatrician. Only a doctor will be able to recommend the most suitable drug and determine the correct dosage.

Fish oil for children is useful, as it can protect against many dangerous pathologies. It has the following effects on the body:

Many people believe that the regular use of any useful substance helps to avoid health problems. They don’t understand why they need to watch their diet if all the useful substances can be obtained by drinking pharmacy vitamin capsules. Unfortunately, even the unique properties of fish oil will not make a schoolboy who abuses sweets, fast food and sweet soda healthier.

Parents should understand that the diet of the baby and teenager must be carefully monitored. A child at any age should receive most of the substances necessary for his body along with food.

“Using baby fish oil will not override the benefits of natural fish. It must be included in the diet at least twice a week. And also make sure that the menu has enough vegetables, fruits, herbs, berries and nuts.

Pharmacies offer a huge range of various dietary supplements. There are drugs in capsules, chewable tablets, syrup, drops and liquid form. Capsules and chewable tablets are recommended for babies who have reached the age of three. Depending on the age of the child, three to six capsules per day will be required.

Liquid preparations are suitable for infants. They are convenient to give in small doses. For example, two or three drops several times a day. Gradually the dose increases. A one-year-old baby is usually given a teaspoon of funds.

Even experienced parents find it difficult to decide which fish oil for children to choose. In order not to make a mistake, you should always consult with your doctor before buying. The specialist will not only select the drug, he will determine the duration of the course of administration and the required dosage.

The best drugs

Oil derived from fish is not an officially recognized medicine. It belongs to biologically active additives, therefore, its production is not regulated by strict standards and norms. Choosing the best fish oil for kids can be tricky. Therefore, when buying It is recommended to pay attention to the following nuances:

The drug is released without a prescription.

The list of the best drugs for children includes:

Contraindications and side effects

A few years ago, doctors believed that fish oil for children is healthier and safer than fish oil. The fact is that fish is made from the muscle tissue of fish. While the fish from their liver. It is known that a large amount of toxic substances accumulate in the liver. For example, mercury, lead, arsenic and many others.

Thanks to modern technologies and multi-stage purification methods, it was possible to obtain a safe product from fish liver. All dietary supplements that have a quality certificate are completely free of toxins. For their production, fat obtained from both the liver and the muscles of fish is used.

A quality product purified from harmful substances is safe, provided that the dosage prescribed by the doctor is observed. It is dangerous to increase the dose of the drug on your own. In addition, you can not take it on an empty stomach, as in this case the following side effects may develop:

Despite the enormous benefits of the substance, in some cases it is contraindicated. Pregnant women can take it only with the permission of a gynecologist. It is necessary for adults and children to completely abandon dietary supplements. with the following pathologies:

Babies who are allergic to fish should not take fat. In the event that their body needs an additional source of polyunsaturated fatty acids, they can be prescribed drugs containing Omega-3. For example, a natural source of this substance is linseed oil. It can be added to complementary foods from the age of six months.

“Infants from the first days of life, for the prevention of vitamin D deficiency, are prescribed a drug from Carlson Labs, Baby’s Vitamin D3. It is specially formulated for breastfed babies and does not contain any potentially hazardous substances.

Taking dietary supplements helps to fill the deficiency of vitamins and trace elements, but you should not rely only on their help. They must be taken in courses and only with the permission of a doctor. And make sure that the child's nutrition is healthy and varied every day.

Fish oil is indicated for children to saturate the body with fatty acids and vitamins, since food does not always replenish all the necessary substances for the harmonious development and growth of the child. Sometimes additional sources of vitamins, minerals and essential amino acids are required. From this article you will learn which fish oil can be given to a child, at what age drops and capsules, how to choose the best fish oil company.

In the Soviet Union, fish oil was given to children en masse in kindergartens and schools as a healthy food supplement. But in the 70s, scientists discovered that fish oil was contaminated with harmful impurities (mercury, dioxide, etc.) due to environmental pollution, and it was no longer produced until 1997. From now on, fish oil manufacturers are responsible for its composition. Fish oil must comply with GOST 8714-2014 (Fat from fish and aquatic mammals), in addition, manufacturers can additionally enrich the preparation with vitamins and essential amino acids. We have already talked about the benefits of fish for children, now we will find out how fish oil is useful for a child.

The body of a child, unlike an adult, is constantly growing and needs building material. Therefore, it is so important that the baby receives all the necessary nutrients, vitamins and minerals. Fish oil contains vitamins A, D, E and unsaturated fatty acids: Omega-3, Omega-6 and Omega-9.

Useful properties of fish oil:

Indispensable for the development of the child's brain due to the presence of fatty acids.

Increases efficiency, improves learning, helps children cope with the school load.

Promotes better absorption of fat-soluble vitamins.

It can be used as a preventive measure for the development of rickets, as it contains vitamin D, which promotes the absorption of phosphorus and calcium.

Promotes healthy eyes, hair, nails and skin with vitamin A.

Fish oil increases mental abilities, strengthens the immune system, prevents the development of vascular and heart diseases due to the content of vitamin E.

Fish oil has a powerful antioxidant effect, that is, it prevents the occurrence of cancerous tumors.

Improves the functioning of the cardiovascular system.

Indications for use

Fish oil with Omega-3, the doctor prescribes to children:

With a violation of neuropsychological development;

With hyperactivity syndrome;

With reduced immunity;

With a disease of the organs of vision;

With memory and learning problems;

With increased dryness of the skin;

With increased irritability, nervousness, tearfulness;

With sleep disorders;

Who are artificially fed;

After a long illness and surgery.

As we can see, fish oil is a very useful drug, but only a doctor can prescribe it, and it has a number of contraindications.

Harm of fish oil for children

May cause allergies in a child, so it is made from seafood.

The child may develop diarrhea, the appearance of a specific smell from the mouth with the regular use of fish oil.

Another negative quality is the taste of fish oil, which is very nasty and not liked by children. But many manufacturers add flavors to make the fish oil taste more palatable.

Contraindications

Seafood intolerance and fish allergy

Hypervitaminosis

kidney failure

pancreatitis

Cholecystitis

Gastric and duodenal ulcer

Reduced blood clotting

thyrotoxicosis.

Composition of fish oil

Fish oil consists of 70% oleic acid (omega-9), 25% palmitic acid, and omega-3 is represented by: 15% docosahexaenoic (DHA), 10% eicosapentaenoic (EHA) and 5% docosapentaenoic acids. Omega-6 in fish oil contains up to 5%, and it also contains a small amount of capric, butyric, acetic, valeric and some other acids.

The composition of fish oil contains cholesterol, fatty pigment lipochrome, organic compounds of sulfur, iodine, phosphorus, bromine, nitrogenous derivatives.

Fish oil also contains vitamins A, D and E.

Omega-3 and omega-6 essential fatty acids (they enter the body only from food) are the main components due to which fish oil is prescribed to children. They are necessary for the formation of brain cells, the normal functioning of the cardiovascular system and the formation of immunity. Deficiency of essential fatty acids can lead to a lag in physical and mental development, delayed speech development, decreased performance, poor learning and memory, and sleep disturbance. Polyunsaturated fatty acids promote the absorption of fat-soluble vitamins A, K, D, F, E.

Types of fish oil

Fish oil can be made from the liver of marine fish or from perimuscular fat.

Fish oil from the liver

Fish oil from the perimuscular tissue of fish

This fat is high in omega-3 fatty acids and vitamin E, and lacks vitamins A and D. It can be taken long time as a food supplement. It is he who is prescribed to healthy children for prevention.

Plant Based Fish Oil

This is not real fish oil, it is made from vegetable oil (sunflower, olive) and omega-3, omega-6 and omega-9 acids and vitamins have been added to it. This remedy can be taken by children with allergies to fish and seafood.

Manufacturers enrich fish oil with additional fatty acids and vitamins, so be sure to study the composition before buying.

Release form

Liquid fish oil

Liquid fish oil has a limited shelf life as the fatty acids oxidize when exposed to the oxygen in the air, meaning fish oil becomes harmful to health over time. Therefore, after opening the package, it can be stored in the refrigerator for no more than 3 months. In addition, packaging for fish oil in liquid form should be made of dark glass, since fatty acids are destroyed by sunlight. On the plus side, it is easy to give to young children in a teaspoon or syringe, but the unpleasant taste can discourage them from taking fish oil and even cause nausea.

Fish oil capsules

Fish oil capsules help to get rid of the unpleasant taste, but the child must be able to swallow well, and this is the age after 3 years. With capsules, the dosage can be precisely observed, unlike liquid fish oil, where you can pour or not add. The shelf life for encapsulated fish oil is greatly extended and the fatty acids in the capsules do not come into contact with oxygen. The gelatin capsule is opened directly in the stomach.

In addition, fish oil can be sold as a medicine and as a dietary supplement. It is better to choose a medicine, since the quality of drug testing is much higher, and dietary supplement manufacturers may not write the entire composition on the label.

Liquid fish oil is approved for use from 3 months, and encapsulated fish oil can be taken after 3 years if the child chews well and swallows large pieces of food.

How and what kind of fish oil to give to children

Fish oil is given to the child during meals along with food. The drug and dosage are selected by the attending physician, since fish oil, which should be given to children, refers to medicines, and not dietary supplements.

First, the child is given the minimum dose of the drug and gradually increased to a therapeutic dose, observing the child's health. If allergic manifestations appear, the drug should be immediately canceled and consulted with a pediatrician.

Note! Fish oil in any form of liquid and capsules is never given on an empty stomach, as it can provoke indigestion and cause an allergic reaction.

Daily requirement for vitamins and fatty acids by age

How to choose the best fish oil for your child

Before buying, pay attention to:

1. On the shelf life and quality of packaging.

2. What fish oil is made of - from the liver or meat of sea fish or has a plant base.

5. It is precisely docosahexaenoic and eicosapentaenoic omega-3 acids that are very important for the growth and development of a child, so it is good if they are contained in large quantities.

6. Pay attention to additional additives: dyes, flavors. For children under one year old, it is better to buy without them, as they can cause allergies.

7. Pay attention to the production technology of fish oil. Preparations obtained by low-temperature cleaning and processing are of higher quality compared to heat treatment, since most of the useful substances are destroyed during heating.

Which fish oil manufacturer is better

Let's compare the composition of fish oil of the most famous companies represented on the Russian market in terms of the presence of the most essential substances in it: omega-3 and in particular eicosapentaenoic and docosahexaenoic acids and vitamins A, D, E, C. For convenience, we have made a table.

As we can see from the table, the composition and content of nutrients in fish oil varies greatly from company to company.

Some manufacturers have additionally enriched the composition of fish oil with vitamins B and C. If the drug is designed for the children's group, then it is positioned as for brain development and performance, and if for the adult group, then as to improve the cardiovascular system, although they have an active basis one omega-3 fatty acids.

The best fish oil for a child is the one that he needs in this moment. For example, Moller liquid fish oil with a high content of vitamins and omega-3 is well suited for treating a child with hypovitaminosis and developmental delays, and Kusalochka fish oil can be prescribed to a child with a lack of vitamin A (poor vision, brittle nails, dry skin), liquid or encapsulated NFO fish oil as a prophylaxis or for children with poor memory, who get tired quickly, who do not sleep well.

Overdose of fish oil in children

Since fish oil contains vitamins A, D and E in large quantities, an overdose may appear on these vitamins. Although being together, they weaken each other's toxic effects.

If you do not exceed the doses prescribed by the pediatrician, then an overdose will never occur. But if you systematically abuse and take more than the norm for age per day or drink the entire vial of fish oil at once, you can get acute or chronic poisoning. Therefore, be sure to follow the doctor's recommendations and read the instructions in which the doses are written by age.

If you give your child fish oil, then you should not give him other preparations that contain vitamins. In addition, do not forget that vitamin D is produced under the influence of ultraviolet rays. In the summer, fish oil with a high content of vitamin D is better not to take.

Vitamin-free fish oil, even with a large overdose, will not lead to serious consequences, a maximum of diarrhea and a slight decrease in blood clotting. But it's still worth it to consult a doctor.

Acute poisoning (the child drank the whole vial of fish oil)

If the child drank a lot of fish oil with a lot of vitamins, then you need to:

1. Call an ambulance.
2. Induce vomiting if less than an hour has passed.
3. Give the child activated charcoal at a dose of 1 g per 1 kg of weight.

In case of chronic poisoning, it is necessary to stop giving the child fish oil and other preparations with vitamins and show the child to the doctor.

conclusions

Fish oil for children is very useful and necessary for brain development, increased efficiency, strengthening immunity, so it should be given to small and large children.

Fish oil for children should be prescribed by a pediatrician, as there is a high risk of overdose of the vitamins that make up it. You can take only fish oil without vitamins on your own, and even better after consulting a doctor. It is best to choose drugs that are drugs, not dietary supplements, as they pass quality control. The prescribed dosage should be strictly observed, taking into account the age of the child.