Children’s Omega: Benefits, Risks, Selection Criteria + TOP 7 Supplements from iHerb

In This Article:

1. Children’s Omega: Benefits and Risks
2. Choosing the Right Omega for Kids: A Guide
3. Children’s Omega on iHerb: Top 7 Supplements

We’ve frequently discussed omega fatty acids and their significance for overall health and well-being. Previously, we covered their composition and picked the best omega supplements for adults and kids. In this article, we’ll take a closer look at omega supplements specifically for children, as they play a crucial role during the developmental stage. Together with Herbzone, we’ll explore the children’s omega options available on iHerb and help you choose the best among the wide assortment of supplements.

Children’s Omega: Benefits and Risks

These essential fatty acids are incredibly important for children’s health. During the active growth and development phase, their bodies especially need these nutrients, as they are involved in numerous vital processes.

Benefits of Omega-3 for Children

1. Brain and Nervous System Development
   Omega-3, especially DHA, supports better concentration, memory, and cognitive abilities in children. It’s crucial for the formation of nerve cells and healthy brain function.
2. Vision Support
   DHA is one of the key components of the retina. Omega-3 helps maintain sharp vision and protects the eyes from strain, especially during studying or screen time.
3. Boosting Immunity
   Children’s omega-3 reduces inflammation risks and helps the body fight viruses and infections, which is particularly vital during cold seasons. Read also: Which Supplements to Give Children to Strengthen Immunity.
4. Heart and Cardiovascular Health
   Even at a young age, omega-3 supports heart health, helps regulate cholesterol levels, and strengthens blood vessel walls.
5. Emotional Well-being
   Adequate omega-3 levels can improve mood and prevent emotional swings. It also helps reduce anxiety and stress.
6. Skin Health
   Omega-3 improves skin condition, making it less prone to dryness or irritation.

Many children don’t consume enough fish or seafood or avoid them altogether. In such cases, omega-3 supplements become essential. They help children grow healthy, energetic, and happy!

• Omega-3 promotes memory development, concentration, and cognitive abilities.
• It supports vision and relieves eye strain, as it is a component of retinal cells.
• Omega-3 helps the body fight infections and reduces the risk of inflammation.
• It benefits the heart, helps normalize cholesterol levels, and strengthens blood vessels.

While the benefits are clear, can omega supplements have any drawbacks? Let’s find out.

Potential Risks of Children’s Omega-3

Omega-3 is generally safe and beneficial for children when taken in proper doses. However, as with any supplement, there are a few potential risks and side effects:

1. Nausea
   Avoid giving fish oil on an empty stomach to prevent diarrhea, nausea, or other unpleasant symptoms. Always monitor the dosage to avoid overconsumption.
2. Allergic Reactions
   If a child is allergic to fish, seafood, or specific supplement ingredients (e.g., flavorings), fish oil-based omega-3 may trigger allergic symptoms like rashes, itching, or more severe reactions.
3. Quality Concerns
   Parents must check the supplement’s quality and certifications (e.g., IFOS) to ensure it’s free from heavy metals. Contaminated products can harm instead of benefit. Stick to trusted brands and avoid experimenting with unknown, cheaper alternatives. Your child’s health depends on it!
4. Blood Clotting
   Omega-3 fatty acids thin the blood, which is great for cardiovascular health but may increase bleeding risks in children with clotting issues. Consult a doctor in such cases.

Choosing the Right Omega for Kids: A Guide

Here’s a checklist to help you select the best omega-3 for your child. In summary, consider the source of fatty acids (e.g., plant-based options for vegetarians), choose the right dosage based on age and needs, and decide on the product form (e.g., syrups for younger kids, capsules for older ones). Additionally, ensure the product is free of heavy metals, artificial additives, and allergens.

Key Criteria for Choosing Omega-3 for Children

1. Source of Fatty Acids
Fish Oil: High-quality and purified to remove heavy metals (e.g., lead, mercury).	Marine Algae: Ideal for vegetarian or vegan children.
2. Dosage of EPA and DHA
For children under 4 years: 150-250 mg of combined EPA and DHA.	For older children: 250-500 mg, as per medical recommendations.
3. Form
Syrups: Convenient for younger children, easily mixed with food.	Chewable Capsules or Gummies: Suitable for older children who dislike syrups.
4. Additional Ingredients
Free from artificial colors, preservatives, and added sugar.	Enriched with vitamin D3 for immune and bone health.

Children’s Omega on iHerb: Top 7 Supplements

Here’s my TOP list of products from iHerb. Nordic and Carlson are my absolute favorite brands that offer high-quality products with a good DHA content (essential for brain support), which is especially important for children during growth periods. These brands have been on the market for many years and have an impeccable reputation.

By the way, my journey with iHerb began with purchasing Nordic’s liquid omega for kids. Yes, Nordic products are not cheap, and you can find more affordable fish oil alternatives on the site, but do those supplements have a high degree of purification from heavy metals? Is the fish used for omega production caught in the wild or farm-raised? Many parents specifically look for Norwegian omega for their children because it is considered the best. The Nordic Naturals brand sources its fish from clean, cold waters, particularly around the Norwegian Sea and the coast of Iceland. For omega-3 production, they typically use small fish like sardines and anchovies, which have a short life cycle and accumulate fewer toxins and heavy metals.

Nordic boasts numerous awards and eco-certifications:

• GMP (Good Manufacturing Practice) guarantees adherence to high production standards.
• IFOS ensures purity from heavy metals, dioxins, and other toxins.
• Friend of the Sea certifies environmentally responsible fishing practices.
• Non-GMO Project Verified confirms that the products are free from genetically modified organisms.

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And now a list of children’s supplements from iHerb.

1. Nordic Naturals Children’s DHA

• Source: Arctic cod liver oil.
• Features: Natural flavor (strawberry), purified product, high DHA content for brain development.
• Form: Syrup, capsules, or chewable tablets.

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2. Carlson Labs Kid’s Super Omega-3

• Source: Cold-water fish oil.
• Features: Soft chewable capsules, lemon flavor, high EPA and DHA content.
• Certifications: IFOS purity certification.

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3. Garden of Life Oceans Kids DHA Chewables

• Source: Fish oil.
• Features: Strawberry flavor, natural composition, chewable capsules.
• Best For: Older children.

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4. Zahler Kidophilus Omega 3 + D3

• Source: Fish oil.
• Features: Syrup with added vitamin D3.
• Form: Best for younger children.

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5. SmartyPants Kids Formula Omega 3

• Source: Small fish oil.
• Features: Chewable gummies enriched with vitamins D3, B12, and other nutrients.
• Advantages: Ideal for children with allergies or vitamin deficiencies.

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The code always works!

Resume:

What are the benefits of omega for children?

Omega-3 fatty acids support brain development, improve memory, concentration, and vision, strengthen the immune system, and promote cardiovascular health in children.

What is the dosage of children’s omega?

Recommendations from domestic nutritionists regarding the dosage of children’s omega:

• 12-16 years: 1100-1500 mg
• 1-3 years: 100-430 mg
• 4-7 years: 150-550 mg
• 8-12 years: 200-1100 mg

What is the best omega for children from iHerb?

Nordic Naturals and Carlson.