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Omega fatty acids, DHA or EPA?
I have two girls, aged 9 and 11 years old, and have started giving them omega-3 supplements. Could let me know the correct daily dosage for this age group and for myself also. I was under the impression that the DHA should be 200mg for a daily allowance – but in a recent reply, you concentrated on the EPA. Please clarify this for me as I feel this is a very effective supplement.
The omega fatty acids, which you cannot get from the diet, are finally getting the mainstream attention they deserve and while I admit the subject can get confusing, all you really need to remember is that of the omega 3 acids, you need to use or give DHA during pregnancy and up to the age of two years to support brain development, and after that, switch to the omega 3 fatty acid EPA.
As far as dosages go, nobody has established a recommended daily allowance as such but good quality supplement makers will base their potency on existing clinical trials. For the consumer, this simply means making sure you buy a reputable brand and take as directed on the label.
I am a big fan of the American Barleans range because the oils are organic and high potency and because the price is very competitive. Both your daughters will benefit from the MorEPA capsules (£12.99 for 60 softgels) from Healthy and Essential (08700-53 6000). You should consider using one of the liquid oils and, if you are over 35 and perimenopausal, The Essential Woman is a brilliant GMO-free mix of organic flax oil with hormone-balancing evening primrose oil and isoflavones from soya.