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Fish Intake in Children

DHA (a long chain omega 3 fatty acid) which is found in oily fish, is essential for the development of the unborn babies brain and retina of the eye. It is the most abundant fat in the brain and essential for its functioning.

A deficiency in the mother’s diet can mean that the baby does not develop its brain or retina to their maximum potential. Recent research has shown that eating oily fish in pregnancy can boost children's future brain power and social skills. Eating fish during pregnancy may also help reduce the risk of delivering a premature baby.

Omega 3’s benefits for children’s health and development don’t just stop at birth, but more and more evidence is accumulating for it positive effects right-up to and adulthood.

Research has shown that it may have a positive effect on the following conditions in childhood:

• Improving or prevent ADD (Attention Deficit Disorders), ADHD (Attention Deficit and Hyperactivity Disorder), Dyslexia,
• General learning difficulties and poor concentration
Improving bad moods and behavioural problems,
• Sleeping difficulties
• Maximising vision,
• May help improve childhood asthma

How to get children to eat more fish
Children can get put off the appearance of fish, before it is cooked, and some don’t even like the appearance of a whole fish on their plate even after it is cooked. To start to encourage children to eat fish it is best to start with getting hold of some really fresh fish that has not got too strong a taste. White fish is great, as is salmon and tuna. Children sometimes like not having to work too hard at their food so dishes such as potato topped fish pie, fish cakes and flaked fish mixed with pasta are very child friendly dishes. And of course don’t forget the fish fingers if your pushed for time!

Fish for weaning
Because of its mild taste and the fact it takes little chewing, white fish is a good weaning food. Poach it in water or babymilk and puree it up with some cooked vegetables. Remember not to add any salt!