At what age can babies start taking omega-3 fatty acids supplements?

When Can Babies Start Taking Omega-3 Fatty Acids?

Babies can safely begin consuming omega-3 fatty acids from 6 months of age when complementary foods are introduced, though the most beneficial source is breast milk which naturally contains omega-3 fatty acids from birth. 1

Sources of Omega-3 for Infants

Birth to 6 Months

• Breast milk: The optimal source of omega-3 fatty acids for infants
  • Contains naturally occurring DHA (docosahexaenoic acid) and other omega-3 fatty acids
  • Exclusive breastfeeding is recommended for the first 6 months of life 1
• Formula: If breastfeeding is not possible, standard infant formula (which typically contains DHA) is recommended 1
  • Note: Special hydrolyzed formulas are not recommended for allergy prevention 1

After 6 Months

• Fish: Introduction of fish as part of complementary feeding is recommended when solid foods are started 1
  • Fish provides natural sources of omega-3 fatty acids, particularly DHA
  • Can be introduced from 6 months as part of regular family diet 1
• Plant sources: Foods containing alpha-linolenic acid (ALA) can be introduced (e.g., soy products, canola oil) 2

Benefits of Omega-3 for Infant Development

Omega-3 fatty acids, particularly DHA, play essential roles in:

• Brain development 3
• Retinal development and visual function 3
• Potentially reducing risk of atopic dermatitis in early life 1

Evidence-Based Recommendations

1. Breastfeeding: Continue breastfeeding for at least the first year of life to ensure adequate essential fatty acid intake 1

2. Complementary foods: Introduce foods containing omega-3 fatty acids from 6 months of age 1

   • Fish should be eaten as often as possible as part of a diverse diet 1
   • For high-risk infants (family history of allergies), do not delay introduction of fish 1

3. Dietary patterns: Once introduced, foods containing omega-3 should be part of the infant's regular diet 1

   • Regular consumption helps maintain adequate levels and prevents sensitization 1

Important Considerations and Cautions

• Avoid supplements before 6 months: Direct omega-3 supplementation is not recommended for infants under 6 months 1

• Moderation is key: Both excess and deficiency of omega-3 fatty acids during development can have adverse effects 4

  • Extremely high doses of omega-3 have been associated with delayed neural transmission in animal studies 4

• Fish selection: Be mindful of mercury content in fish for infants and young children 1

  • Follow local guidelines for fish selection for young children

• Formula considerations: If using formula, choose one with appropriate DHA levels; specialized hydrolyzed formulas are not recommended for allergy prevention 1

Special Circumstances

For children with specific medical conditions such as elevated triglycerides:

• Increased dietary fish to increase omega-3 fatty acids may be recommended for children with elevated triglycerides, but this is typically for older children (>2 years) 1

Remember that breast milk remains the optimal source of omega-3 fatty acids for infants, and introducing omega-3-rich foods should begin at 6 months as part of normal complementary feeding.