ADD/ADHD –The Link to EFAs
It is well known that a diet providing a balance of nutrients is essential for the maintenance of good health. Nutritional deficiencies during the prenatal period and in early childhood may be responsible for the development of ADD/ADHD later in life. Studies show a deficiency of EFAs and trace minerals in patients with hyperactivity and ADD. EFAs are an important part of a balanced diet and essential for the normal growth and functioning of the brain.
EFAs participate in the generation of messenger molecules (neurons) responsible for the action of various hormones and enzymes and have a vital role in cell to cell communication in the Read More
EFAs – The “Good” Fats… And More
Essential fatty acids (EFAs) are essential to our diet and body. Unfortunately, many of us are relatively deficient in these powerful fats. Gone are the days of eating simple diets full of fish, seeds and nuts; our diets are now full of processed foods that are lacking in the good, essential fats.
Some signs of EFA deficiencies include dry, scaly skin, thinning hair, fatigue, impaired growth, loss of visual acuity, and increased incidence of disease.
Immune system deficiencies are also commonly seen with an EFA deficiency. Upon supplementation with EFAs, conditions such as asthma and various food allergies can be greatly improved.
Studies have shown a Read More
ADD/ADHD – The Disorder
The sound of a pencil hitting the floor across the room, the humming of florescent lights, a bird flying outside the window. Many of us take these sights and sounds for granted and can easily ignore them, but to a child with ADHD (Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder) and ADD (Attention Deficit Disorder) they are magnified and can turn into difficult-to-ignore distractions.
Every day in our country, children with these disorders face the challenges of trying to overcome “typical” exterior stimuli in order to concentrate in school environments but, in an ironic loop, their decreased ability to stay focused and pay attention adds to the difficulty ADD and Read More
Omega-3s and their Sources
EPA and DHA are found in variable amounts in fish, with the highest amounts being found in fatty, cold-water fish such as sardines, anchovies, mackerel, lake trout, and salmon. Fish ranges from less than 0.5 g of total omega-3 per 100 g serving (cod, haddock, halibut), to 1-1.5 g (e.g. salmon); 1.5-2 g (herring, lake trout) and 2-3.3 g (sardines and mackerel) per 100 g serving of the fish.7 Depending on the source of the fish used, fish oils vary in the amount of EPA and DHA they provide. For instance, tuna oil typically contains 5% EPA and 25% DHA, salmon oil provides 6% EPA and Read More