Essential fatty acids for brain development
Question : MY five-year-old son is dyslexic and has difficulty
paying attention in class. Can you advise on dietary and
lifestyle changes?
Answer : DYSLEXIA is a common learning disorder among children.
It is an inherent dysfunction involving the language centres of
the brain. They may have difficulty in reading, spelling and
writing in school. The spoken word may be affected to some
degree but the handicap is particularly related to mastering the
written word.
Dyslexic children often have problems in converting essential
fatty acids into the long-chain fatty acids which play an
integral part in the formation of the brain's complex network of
100 billion cells. Thus, incorporating these essential fatty
acids and minerals such as zinc and magnesium in your son's diet
may be beneficial.
Children with learning disorders have been shown to have lower
amounts of arachidonic acid (AA), docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) and
gamma linolenic acid (GLA) in their blood plasma and red blood
cell membranes.
Essential fatty acids are found in marine fish oil and evening
primrose oil. These nutrients are essential in the formation and
development of the brain and nerves. Additionally, their diet
should have adequate amount of protein, carbohydrates and fats
to ensure proper growth.
Have your child eat more peas, beans and nuts like pecans,
macadamia, chestnuts, walnuts, cashews and almonds. Let him eat
five or more servings of fruits and vegetables per day. Try to
avoid trans fatty acids found in low-fat spreads and other foods
because a high amount of trans fatty acids in the diet will
reduce the utilisation of long-chain fatty acids.
You should encourage your son to take part in outdoor activities
such as team sports and gymnastics. Exercise also can help to
develop social skills and improve motor co-ordination.