ABSTRACT
Introduction Fish, especially marine fish and seafood, are rich in n-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids, particularly eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA). These n-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids are recognized as essential fatty acids because they cannot be made de novo by humans and animals. The efficacy of these two fatty acids has been studied at length in the prevention and treatment of illness in adults. A body of data suggests that n-3 fats may improve psychiatric symptoms in adults. Results of our previous study in Thai adults concur with the efficacy of supplementating these fatty acids in the reduction of hostility (1). These essential fatty acids are selectively concentrated in neuronal tissues and are important for optimal neuronal development. A great deal of scientific attention has also been directed toward understanding their role in infant nutrition. Clinical studies demonstrate that DHA supplementation improves cognitive measures and optimal neuronal performance in infants. Although products fortified with n-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids have been sold to improve academic performance in children, no previous studies in normal children exist.
