Beneficial effects of n-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids on child development and health / 中华实用儿科临床杂志

ABSTRACT

n -3 polyunsaturated fatty acids (n -3 PUFAs),essential fatty acids for human body,have varied biological activities.They are absolutely or relatively deficient in modern human diets.Supplementation of n -3 PUFAs in early life is important for the optimal growth and development in fetus,infants and children,and well as for prevention of chronic non -communicable diseases in later life,such as attention deficient hyperactivity disorder,allergic diseases, asthma,hyperlipidemia and non -alcoholic fatty liver disease.The human body can synthesize eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA)and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA)with linolenic acid,but the ability is limited.Therefore,intake of pre -formed EPA and DHA is needed for body requirement.For pregnant women and infants,supplementation of DHA and EPA with a ratio above 51 is suggested.In clinic,n -3 PUFAs have been applied for treatment of chronic non -com-municable diseases and proved to be beneficial in relief of symptoms.