Omega-3 fatty acids help children sleep better

Plant-based omega-3 fatty acids help babies sleep longer and wake less at night, Oxford University researchers say.

The study involved 352 children aged 7-9 years old from a primary school. Parents completed questionnaires that revealed that 4 in 10 children had regular sleep disturbances. During the trial, the children were given a daily supplement of algae rich in omega-3 fatty acids, while the control group was given a placebo, and were also fitted with wrist sensors to track their movements in bed.

As a result of the trial, researchers found that children who took the daily algae supplement slept 58 minutes more and woke up less each night than children who took the placebo.

Foods rich in omega 3 fatty acids are mainly found in fish oil because the human body cannot produce these acids. According to researchers, children and adults should eat fish at least twice a week, including a portion of oily fish such as salmon.

One of the important omega-3 fatty acids is docosahexaenoic acid (DHA), which helps nerve cells connect with each other, reduces insomnia and reduces sleep disorders. Previous studies have also shown that low blood levels of DHA in children aged 7-9 can lead to behavioral and learning problems.

Professor Paul Montgomery, of the University of Oxford, also said: “Although this is only a small study with a small number of children participating in the research and scientists need to continue to research in more depth, this also shows that children's sleep can be improved by DHA supplementation. Omega-3 also helps increase learning performance in children and a good night's sleep is very important for concentration and alertness during the day. A small change of adding omega-3 to the diet can help them achieve this.”

According to dantri.com