Essential Fatty Acids
Essential Fatty Acids (EFAs) are necessary fats that children and adults cannot synthesize, and must be obtained through diet. EFAs are long-chain polyunsaturated fatty acids derived from linolenic, linoleic, and oleic acids. There are two families of EFAs:
-
Omega-3
-
Omega-6
-
Omega-9 is “non-essential” because the body can make small amounts
Omega-3 fatty acids are derived from linolenic acid. Linolenic acid is converted into two important substances that are essential for growth and regulationo of inflammation: DHA and EPA.
Omega-6 are from linoleic acid and the most important product that results from conversion is GLA.
EFAs support development of the digestive tract, brain, nerves, immune, respiratory and cardiovascular system. The human body needs EFAs to manufacture and repair cell membranes, enabling the cells to obtain optimum nutrition and expel harmful waste products.
A primary function of EFAs is the production of prostaglandins, which regulate inflammation and play a role in immune function by encouraging the body to fight infection. Essential Fatty Acids are also needed for proper growth in children, particularly for neural development and maturation of sensory systems, with male children having higher needs than females. It is very difficult for children, especially children with ASD and/or AD/HD to convert EFAs to their active form which is why supplementation, especially with DHA, is very important.
EFA deficiency is common in North American children, particularly Omega-3 deficiency. An ideal intake ratio of Omega-6 to Omega-3 fatty acids is between 1:1 and 4:1, with most North American childre obtaining a ratio between 10:1 and 25:1.
EFA deficiency and Omega 6/3 imbalance is linked with develomental disorders because they both create and perpetuate inflammation. We know that a causative factor in ASD and AD/HD is inflammation. Studies have that the overwhelming majority of children with developmental disorders have DHA deficiency and inflammation.
The best source of Omega 3 and Omega 6 EFAs in children with ASD and AD/HD is pharmaceutical greade fish oil. Other sources are difficult for children with developmental disorders to convert properly and/or have contamination issues.
Fish, like humans, accumulate toxins in the fat cells that surround organs. Essential fatty acids must be processed to remove these toxins when they are made into supplements. There are only five companies in the world that produce pharmaceutical grade fish oil free of heavy metals, pesticides, PCBs and other harmful toxins. It is important that your child be taking a good quality essential fatty acid supplement.
Here is the link to a website that contains research about EFAs and developmental concerns like ASD and AD/HD.