Omega-3s support cognitive development, emotional health, and pro-social behavior in children.
Children in the United States eat relatively little fish compared with other sources of animal protein, such as chicken and beef. A lack of nutrients from fish may deter the neurodevelopment of social skills, according to a British study from the University of Bristol.
The benefits of children eating fish also extend to broader aspects of health, as earlier research has found that it may help prevent allergies and Crohn’s disease. While some safety issues are associated with eating fish, following guidance from doctors and the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) can help mitigate risks.
Fish and Childhood Neurodevelopment
The study, published in the European Journal of Nutrition, found that low fish intake in childhood may result in suboptimal development of social skills intended to benefit others rather than themselves, such as helping, sharing, and comforting. These behaviors typically begin to form between the ages of 1 and 2 and increase as children grow older.
Earlier research found an association between seafood intake during pregnancy and positive effects on child neurodevelopment, but because studies have focused less on fish intake during childhood, the researchers undertook the investigation. They examined dietary intake data from 5,969 children to make correlations to behavior and cognition. Behavioral scores were derived from questionnaires taken at ages 7 and 9, and cognitive function was assessed at age 8.
Lower fish intake at age 7 linked to a 35 percent increased likelihood of suboptimal social behavior and a 45 percent likelihood at age 9.
“A good supply of the nutrients from fish will allow the brain to develop to its maximum potential,” coauthor Caroline Taylor, associate professor in nutrition at the University of Bristol, told The Epoch Times. “Neurodevelopmental benefits might stem from one particular nutrient in the mix or a combination.”
The part of the brain responsible for the observed social traits is able to develop well in these children, she said. On a larger scale, the traits help build cooperative and successful societies. To make the most of the potential benefits, we encourage parents and children to eat at least two portions of fish per week, one of which should be an oily variety.
By Mary West
