Study shows that fish oils may boost development.

Study shows that fish oils may boost development.

A new study has revealed that by giving a child daily dosages of omega-3 and omega-6 fats their brain development will be boosted (the pill that was trialled was called VegEPA - it is rich in omega-3 and omega-6 fats) - The four participating children, who were aged between eight and 13, increased their reading age by an average of a year and a quarter during the three month trial and improved on concentration and short-term memory. Brain scans taken during the study showed the evidence of changes too (we have a clip of the brain scans). The study suggests pupils across the country are deficient in 'smart fats' because the children in the study had typical youngsters' diets - laden with refined sugar and junk food.

Professor Basant Puri, who led the research, believes mass supplementation of school children is now needed because they are unlikely to consume optimum quantities of omega-3 and omega-6 (which are derived from oily fish and a pure form of evening primrose oil) through eating normal diets. His study adds to already growing evidence that healthy fats can help improve children's learning power, concentration and behaviour - even among those with no obvious problems. The professor even believes many adults would benefit from additional healthy fats because they help keep brain degeneration at bay.

The Food Standards Agency reviewed the evidence but found the benefits were still a grey area. It should also be noted that this study only covered four children and therefore is not statistically significant.


This content was created on Wed 14 March 2007

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