April 9/Pediatrics Week -- Long-chain omega-3 fatty acids (omega-3s), namely EPA and DHA found in seafood and fish oil, are known for their potential heart health benefits, but evidence of other benefits continues to accumulate. Enhanced infant brain development, reduced hot flashes in menopausal women and healthier weight loss in obese dieters are newer associations with omega-3 consumption. Research findings on these topics are summarized in the March 2009 "Fats of Life" and PUFA newsletters.
A study in Australia examined the effects on neurodevelopment of giving preterm infants more DHA than is usually found in breast milk or preterm formula. When the infants reached 18 months of age, the researchers found that all infants receiving the DHA-rich breast milk were less likely to develop serious mental delay compared with infants receiving standard breast milk.