Can Including Omega 3 DHA Fish Oil In Child Diets Help Treat Autism?

Omega-3 has shown considerable effect in the treatment of ASD symptoms.  However, you need to consider that ASD is a life-long spectrum syndrome. But with proper nourishment and nutrients, you can lessen the effects of each symptom.

Docosahexaenoic acid (DHA), an omega-3 long-chain polyunsaturated fatty acid, plus vitamin D, may be able to dramatically lessen the symptoms of autism spectrum condition, according to studies on ASD.

In this article, we shall help you understand what omega 3 is and how to include it in meals or supplements for autistic people to recover.

What Is Omega 3 DHA?

An omega-3 fatty acid called docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) is present in cold-water, fatty fish like salmon.

Along with eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA), they make up fish oil supplements. Seaweed is a source of DHA for vegetarians.

Our body requires DHA for a healthy brain, and omega-3 fish oil fatty acids are helpful for the heart.

Infants require DHA to ensure proper brain, eye, and nervous system development, especially during the first six months of life.

DHA is a nutrient that is present in breast milk and some newborn formulas.

Small quantities of DHA are produced by our bodies naturally, but we must consume foods or supplements to meet the extra needs.
Note: The majority of Westerners do not get enough omega-3 fatty acids daily.

Omega 3 Rich Food Items

We will make a list of some of the omega-3-rich fruits, vegetables and nuts:

1. Omega-3-rich Vegetables

• Algae and seaweed- These foods are essential sources of omega-3 for people following vegetarian or vegan diets. These are one of the few sources of DHA and EPA found in plants.
• Spinach- 370 milligrams of omega-3 are present in 100 grams of spinach.
• Brussels sprouts- Each half cup of raw Brussels sprouts has roughly 44 milligrams of ALA.

2. Omega-3-rich Fruits

• Mangoes- This scrumptious summer treat includes a healthy ratio of Omega 3 to Omega 6 fatty acids. They also include significant amounts of protein, vital nutrients, and minerals.
• Muskmelons- It is a wonderful alternative to the omega-3-rich fruits that are offered in India. Melons may be a healthy addition to your diet because they contain fewer Omega 6 fatty acids than other fruits and vegetables.
• Avocado- The overall quantity of omega-6 in avocado is rather low, despite its high omega-6 to omega-3 ratio. So, it is both safe to consume and simple to incorporate into your daily diet.
• Berries- Each 100g serving of berries, particularly blueberries, contains 0.25 grams of omega 3 fatty acids. These items might be a great addition to your selection of vegetarian options.

3. Omega-3-rich Beans And Seeds

• Chia seeds- 4,915 mg of ALA are found in one ounce, or 28 grams, of chia seeds.
• Flax seeds- For every 28 grams of flax seed you consume, your body will absorb 6,388 mg of ALA. It not only provides protein, magnesium, and manganese but is also an excellent vegetarian source of omega 3.
• Hemp seeds- The iron, zinc, and substantial protein included in hemp seeds help improve your general health. For example, 28 grams of hemp seeds have 6,000 milligrams of ALA.
• Edamame beans- These beans, which are essentially young soybeans, are particularly well-known in Japan. Endive beans are an excellent source of omega-3 and plant-based protein. Frozen edamame beans provide 0.28 grams of ALA per half-cup serving.
• Kidney beans- Kidney beans are a well-known source of omega-3 fatty acids. It offers 0.10 gm of ALA per half-cup,

Additionally, dry fruits too can make an excellent supplement for omega 3. This includes walnuts and cashews.

What Are Some Omega 3 Food Ideas For Autistic Children?

Some major sources of omega 3 supplements are: 

• Meals of fatty fish per week, such as mackerel, salmon, mackerel, sardines, herring and anchovies. Include these in lunch as dinner needs to be kept less heavy for autism patients for a good night’s sleep.
• Try powdered flax instead of whole flax seeds, which are harder to digest. You may sprinkle it on yogurt or cereal or mix it into smoothies. You can also make flax seed puddings by soaking the seed in milk overnight and then mixing the slimy paste with fruits and nuts for a wholesome breakfast.
• You can make granola bars at home by adding chia seeds as an omega-3 supplement.
• Mix nuts trail with walnuts for a quick snack in the evening or before lunch.

Conclusion

When it comes to nutrition, it becomes an important aspect for every individual, adult or child. However, people with autism are already suffering from several disorders and difficulties.

Therefore, following a balanced meal filled with nutrients and important components for brain development can help kids with ADS reduce the disorder’s effects.

Prepare wholesome, delicious meals with the food options we mentioned above.

Remember, an autistic child can be picky about food and restrictive to certain tastes, smells or textures of foods. Hence, prepare their meals with care, keeping their conditions in mind.