Fish Oil for Kids: The 7 Best Options According to a Dietitian
Key takeaways
Most kids don't need fish oil supplements, but these can be useful in some cases.
Nordic Naturals Children's DHA is our top pick because it's third-party tested, sustainably sourced, and available in two different forms.
Other picks include California Gold Nutrition Kids Omega-3 Fish Oil as the best budget-friendly option and Nordic Naturals Gummy Chews.
A quick look at the best fish oil for kids
Fish oil supplements can be a quick and convenient way to squeeze extra omega-3 fatty acids — including docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) and eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) — into your child's diet to support brain and heart health.
While most kids can meet their nutritional needs through a balanced diet, fish oil can be useful for picky eaters and those who don't often eat seafood or other foods high in omega-3.
From liquids to softgels to gummies, there are many different options on the market designed specifically for kids. Keep reading for what you should look for, along with a few of our top picks.
Healthline's review
Nordic Naturals Children's DHA is a high quality fish oil supplement for kids. It comes in Strawberry flavor and provides 250 milligrams (mg) of total omega-3 sourced from wild Arctic cod, with 80 mg of EPA and 120 mg of DHA per serving when choosing the softgel form.
It's available in both softgel and liquid form. Because the recommended dose is 4 softgels daily (which can be chewed), many might prefer the liquid option.
However — hint — the California Gold liquid pick below is about the same price but includes more per bottle and also contains more EPA and DHA if you're looking for a higher dose. That said, it doesn't make test results available like Nordic Naturals and does not have any sustainability certifications.
It's certified sustainable by FOS and third-party tested for purity, with test results available for all products.
Pros & cons
available in both softgel and liquid forms
third-party tested
certified sustainable
non-GMO
certificate of analysis (COA) available
available in both softgel and liquid forms
third-party tested
certified sustainable
non-GMO
certificate of analysis (COA) available
Product details
Number of servings: 48 per bottle, 96 per bottle, and 192 per bottle
Dose: 1/2 teaspoon (2.5 mL) per day
Active ingredient(s) (serving strength): omega-3s (530 mg)
Available flavors: strawberry, orange
Certifications: third-party tested for purity and potency, non-GMO verified
Price per serving: $0.29 per serving (96-count bottle)
Returns: no returns
How we chose these fish oil supplements for kids
As we compiled our list of the best fish oil supplements for kids, we considered the following factors:
Nutrients: We selected supplements made with DHA and EPA, the easiest forms of omega-3 fatty acids for your body to use.
Ingredients: We prioritized supplements made with high quality ingredients, which are free from artificial additives, unnecessary fillers, and preservatives.
Quality testing: Many of the supplements on our list have been tested by third-party labs to help ensure purity, safety, and quality.
Online reviews: We read real reviews from parents to determine which fish oil supplements for kids should make the cut.
Vetting: All products on our list have been vetted to ensure they align with Healthline's brand integrity standards and approach to well-being. You can read more about our vetting process.
What to look for in a fish oil supplement for kids (and what to avoid)
There are several factors you can consider when shopping for a fish oil supplement for your child.
A few of the key points to keep in mind include:
Nutrients: Be sure to check the dose of DHA and EPA provided in your fish oil supplement. Additionally, some omega-3 supplements may also contain other nutrients — such as vitamins A, D, or E — so remember to check the label carefully, especially if your child is taking other vitamins or supplements.
Other ingredients: Steer clear of fish oil supplements that contain artificial ingredients, fillers, or excessive amounts of added sugar. Instead, stick to products low in added sugar with a simple list of ingredients.
Form: Fish oil is available in several forms, including liquids, gummies, and softgels. While liquid may be easier to mix into foods or drinks, some children and parents may prefer the taste or convenience of gummies and softgels instead.
Source: Omega-3 supplements are typically derived from fatty fish, krill, cod liver, or algae. Consider your child's dietary requirements and personal preferences to determine which is right for you.
Testing: Ideally, opt for supplements that are tested or certified by an independent organization for safety and quality. This can help ensure that your fish oil is free from harmful contaminants or heavy metals, such as mercury.
Cost: Fish oil supplements are available at a wide range of price points. Be sure to keep your budget in mind and remember that a higher price tag doesn't always translate to a higher quality product.
The benefits of fish oil for kids
Fish oil supplements can be an easy way to help boost your child's intake of omega-3 fatty acids, especially if seafood isn't a regular part of their meal plan.
It may also be linked to a few possible health perks, including for the following:
May support brain health: Omega-3 fatty acids play a key role in brain development during childhood and adolescence and have been tied to several benefits, especially related to attention, memory, executive function, and communication.
May aid sleep: Research suggests that omega-3 fatty acids could reduce sleep disturbances and improve other aspects of sleep health during childhood.
Possible benefits for asthma: One study found that getting enough omega-3 fatty acids in the diet may actually be linked to a lower risk of asthma in children and adolescents.
However, keep in mind that fish oil supplements are not necessary for all children, especially if they regularly consume foods rich in omega-3, such as fatty fish.
Who should not take fish oil?
Not all kids need fish oil, especially if they're following a balanced diet and eating seafood on a regular basis. In fact, taking high doses of fish oil could cause unpleasant side effects like heartburn, nausea, and diarrhea.
Children who are allergic to fish or shellfish also need to avoid fish oil. If needed, they can opt for omega-3 supplements from other sources instead, such as algal oil.
If your child is taking any medications or other supplements, it's also a good idea to check in with your pediatrician before adding fish oil to the mix.
Additionally, keep in mind that certain types of omega-3 supplements may contain high amounts of nutrients commonly found in multivitamins — like vitamin A or vitamin E — which can be harmful if consumed in excess.
Fish oil for ADHD
Omega-3 fatty acids have been studied for their ability to support brain health and improve symptoms of attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) in children. However, research has turned up mixed results on their effectiveness.
For example, one study in 60 children with ADHD found that supplementing with 550 mg of EPA and 225 mg of DHA per day for 8 weeks could be tied to less impulsive behavior.
Another 12-week study in 92 adolescents concluded that 1.2 grams of EPA per day could improve cognitive (thinking ability) symptoms in children and teens with ADHD, especially for those with low blood levels of EPA at baseline. On the other hand, researchers note that those with high levels of EPA could actually be negatively affected.
Other studies suggest that there may be a link between EPA deficiency and the severity of ADHD symptoms.
That being said, one review of 37 trials concluded that polyunsaturated fatty acids (including omega-3s) had no significant effect on parent-rated inattention, hyperactivity, impulsivity, or overall ADHD symptoms in children compared to a placebo.
A 2023 meta-analysis also found that omega-3 supplementation does not improve ADHD symptoms but could offer other long-term benefits.
Therefore, while omega-3 fatty acids can benefit brain health, it's still a good idea to check in with your pediatrician before using fish oil to help manage symptoms of ADHD.
Frequently asked questions about fish oil for kids
Do kids really need fish oil?
No. According to the National Institutes of Health (NIH), most children in the United States consume the recommended amount of omega-3 in the form of alpha-linolenic acid (ALA).
However, fish oil supplements can be a quick and convenient way to bump up intake for picky eaters or those who don't regularly eat foods rich in omega-3.
No. According to the National Institutes of Health (NIH), most children in the United States consume the recommended amount of omega-3 in the form of alpha-linolenic acid (ALA).
However, fish oil supplements can be a quick and convenient way to bump up intake for picky eaters or those who don't regularly eat foods rich in omega-3.
What is the right age to start taking fish oil?
There's no set age for starting supplementation. In fact, fish oil supplements are available for all ages, from infants to adults.
A pediatrician can provide personalized guidance on whether a fish oil supplement may be necessary for your child and offer recommendations on an appropriate dosage and form.
There's no set age for starting supplementation. In fact, fish oil supplements are available for all ages, from infants to adults.
A pediatrician can provide personalized guidance on whether a fish oil supplement may be necessary for your child and offer recommendations on an appropriate dosage and form.
What are the side effects of taking fish oil?
Fish oil can cause several side effects, but they are generally very mild. Possible side effects of fish oil supplements include an unpleasant taste, bad breath, headache, and digestive issues like heartburn, diarrhea, or nausea.
Fish oil can cause several side effects, but they are generally very mild. Possible side effects of fish oil supplements include an unpleasant taste, bad breath, headache, and digestive issues like heartburn, diarrhea, or nausea.
How much fish oil for ADHD kids?
One small study found that 550 mg of EPA and 225 mg of DHA were associated with decreased impulsive behavior in children. Meanwhile, another study found that taking 1.2 g of EPA alone could improve cognitive symptoms.
However, research is mixed on the use of fish oil for ADHD, and some other studies have found no benefit of supplementation for reducing symptoms of ADHD.
One small study found that 550 mg of EPA and 225 mg of DHA were associated with decreased impulsive behavior in children. Meanwhile, another study found that taking 1.2 g of EPA alone could improve cognitive symptoms.
However, research is mixed on the use of fish oil for ADHD, and some other studies have found no benefit of supplementation for reducing symptoms of ADHD.
The takeaway
Most children can meet their nutritional needs by following a balanced diet and don't need supplementation.
However, fish oil supplements can be a simple way to boost your child's intake of omega-3 fatty acids if needed. They may be especially useful for picky eaters and those who aren't getting enough foods rich in omega-3s in their diet.
Hashtags
Try Our AI Features
Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:
Comments
No comments yet...
Related Articles
Yahoo
37 minutes ago
- Yahoo
Build better balance and serious leg strength with this six-move bench workout
When you buy through links on our articles, Future and its syndication partners may earn a commission. If you want to build serious leg strength, then you need to include unilateral exercises – movements that work on one side of your body at a time. This six-move workout from Fitness Trainer Joe Bronston focuses on just that to help improve your lower body stability, balance, and unlock serious single-leg strength. No squat racks or leg machines needed, just a workout bench and a set of heavyish dumbbells. 'Most people have a dominant side that does more work without them even realizing it,' he writes on his Instagram post. 'Over time, that can lead to poor movement patterns and nagging pain—especially in the knees, hips, or low back. Single-leg exercises help correct that. They force your body to activate stabilizing muscles, improve joint alignment, and fire up your glutes in a way most bilateral movements just can't.' For this workout, perform three sets of each of the exercises below for the required reps, on each leg. Rest for 1-2 minutes between each exercise round and opt for a medium to heavy weight, where the last couple of reps feel like a challenge, without your form being compromised. If you're not sure how to perform any of the exercises, then just take a quick watch of the short video above. Here's the workout: Bulgarian split squats – 8-10 reps Single leg hip thrusts – 10 reps Supported single leg Romanian deadlift – 10 reps Goblet lateral lunge butt taps – 10 reps Alternating step-ups – 10 reps Goblet box squats – 15 reps Now it's time to hit the upper half. We've got plenty of bench-focused workouts, and this upper body session is perfect to save for later in the week. It targets your arms, chest, shoulders, and back, and with a bit of grit, you can knock it out in just 35–40 minutes. Then, if you're looking to round out your week with one final push, try this superset full-body workout – it's efficient, effective, and designed to save you time without sacrificing results.
Yahoo
42 minutes ago
- Yahoo
Dermatologists Say This One Trick Is A Surefire Way To Treat Visible Leg Veins
"Hearst Magazines and Yahoo may earn commission or revenue on some items through these links." As a child, I'd always noticed the veins on my mom's legs. In the summertime, when she'd wear shorts or sit with her feet up on the couch, I'd see the web of tiny red and purple lines weaving across her calves and ankles. They were just part of her legs, like freckles or tan lines, but they stuck with me. And by the time I hit my mid twenties, I started spotting those same patterns on my own body. The web-like marks, which I later learned are called spider veins, are incredibly common, especially in women. While harmless, they can be bothersome to some, but acting early can prevent and minimize their appearance significantly. 'The earlier you start intervention, the better,' says Rachel Nazarian, MD, a board-certified dermatologist in New York City. 'If you recognize that visible veins run in your family, and you see early signs of on your own legs, be diligent about wearing compression stockings regularly.' Meet the experts: Rachel Nazarian, MD, is a board-certified dermatologist in New York City. Marisa Garshick, MD, is a board-certified dermatologist in NYC. Todd Harris Wolf is a celebrity and editorial makeup artist in New York City. But stockings are just the beginning: If you're in the early stages of seeing spider veins or wondering what to do about the larger, bumpier kind (those are called varicose veins), I talked to doctors about what causes them, how to treat them, and how to prevent them. Plus, find out what to do when you want a quick (read: instant) fix. Most often, our veins go undetected underneath the skin, shuttling nutrient-rich blood from our heart to our other organs. When they become damaged, they start showing up—usually on the legs, but they can also appear on the face. Both spider and varicose veins are essentially damaged blood vessels. Spider veins are broken capillaries (so they're not technically veins) that can look red, blue, or purple. Varicose veins are larger, bulging veins that may appear twisted or raised, and oftentimes symptoms like aching or swelling can accompany their appearance. While spider veins are mostly cosmetic, varicose veins can sometimes point to a more serious issue, such as chronic venous insufficiency (when your leg veins can't send blood to your heart). There's a strong genetic component—thanks, Mom—when it comes to developing spider or varicose veins. So, if your relatives had them, chances are you might too. But lifestyle and environmental factors can also play a role. Sitting or standing for long hours, pregnancy, and even just the normal aging process can all raise your risk for spider or varicose veins. Hormonal fluctuations (like those during pregnancy or menopause) can increase your risk as well. Other overlooked causes include trauma or injury and even 'certain types of exercise that put extra pressure on the legs, such as heavy weightlifting,' says Marisa Garshick, MD, a board-certified dermatologist in NYC. There are a few different ways you can zap leg veins away, and they're usually done at a dermatologist's office. These treatments offer permanent results, but 'occasionally new veins can form nearby or in other areas,' Dr. Nazarian says. Lasers are the go-to for small, superficial spider veins. Both Drs. Nazarian and Garshick recommend Nd:YAG lasers for leg veins. These lasers emit a specific wavelength of light that targets the blood in the vein. 'The blood absorbs the energy from the laser, heating up, which then causes the veins to either collapse and scar down or to rupture and break,' Dr. Nazarian says. The treatment can be very quick, with minimal discomfort, and the small veins tend to respond well. However, each vein has to be treated individually, which can be tedious, and there's a risk of your skin staining brown, which may linger for months or longer. I visited Dr. Nazarian's New York City office to try the YAG laser on a cluster of spider veins around my ankle and a couple of others behind my knee and on my shin. While it wasn't exactly a spa day, the process was quicker and less painful than I expected. The zap feels like a rubber band snap, and there's a bit of redness afterward, but the veins disappeared in real time. There's no downtime with laser, and Dr. Nazarian said to wait about four weeks to see if I noticed any tell-tale skin staining and if I need another round to fully get rid of the veins. For medium to larger spider veins or clusters, sclerotherapy tends to be more effective. 'Sclerotherapy involves injecting a sclerosant—either a liquid or foam—into the vein,' which causes it to shut down and fade over time, Dr. Garshick says. After injecting, your dermatologist may massage the area and monitor you for a bit after. Most people have to wear compression socks for up to 3 weeks after getting treated with sclerotherapy, according to the American Academy of Dermatology Association (AAD). When it comes to choosing between sclerotherapy and laser to treat veins, it's important to factor in the number, location, and exact size of the veins. Larger veins or clusters do better with injections, while tiny telangiectasias (spider veins) may respond to YAG laser, Dr. Nazarian says. For larger varicose veins or those with underlying venous insufficiency, endovenous laser therapy (EVLT) may be the way to go. 'EVLT is reserved for larger varicose veins stemming from underlying venous insufficiency,' Dr. Garshick says. This is a more invasive procedure that requires making a small incision under local anesthesia to allow a thin laser fiber to seal off affected veins, redirected blood flow to other healthier veins. Laser or sclerotherapy sessions can range from $300 to $1,000, depending on the extent of treatment. And while cosmetic cases are typically not covered by insurance, 'in some cases, if the veins are causing pain or swelling, treatments may be covered,' Dr. Garshick says. While veins treated by one of the above procedures typically don't come back, they're a chronic conditioner and new ones can form over time, Dr. Nazarian says. That makes it extra important to do what you can to prevent them from forming in the first place. And if you're genetically prone to visible veins: 'The earlier you start intervention, the better,' Dr. Nazarian says. Wear compression stockings, especially if you stand or sit for long periods. (Both Dr. Nazarian and Dr. Garshick recommend wearing them regularly to help prevent blood pooling in the legs.) Elevate your legs when resting. Avoid prolonged sitting or crossing your legs. Exercise regularly to improve circulation. Protect your legs from injury or trauma. Maintain a healthy weight.$22.37 at If you've spotted drugstore products that promise vein-erasing magic, our experts say not to expect miracles—they're mostly just marketing. 'Topical creams can't reach nearly deep enough to collapse the veins and they don't have enough power to fight blood pressure within the vessels,' Dr. Nazarian says. But there is one product that can make a major difference in the appearance of visible veins: makeup. Certain products can temporarily camouflage spider and varicose veins when you want a bit of an airbrushed finish. Celebrity makeup artist Todd Harris Wolf says to look for body makeup with a 'film former,' which means it's self-setting and won't transfer to clothing or furniture. Typically, these products will be labeled as 'transfer-proof,' 'water-proof,' or 'sweat-resistant.' In 12 adaptable and buildable shades, this high-performance body foundation can fade even the most visible of veins. It's forgiving finish won't draw attention to textured skin and it contains SPF 25 to prevent further damage. $40.00 at product has more of an illuminating finish (so not the best option for varicose veins) but offers incredible coverage, making it ideal for very dark and prominent spider veins. It's sweat-, water-, and transfer-proof for twenty-four hours and comes in 7 buildable shades. $49.00 at veins that require coverage but not major camouflage, this product delivers handily. It has the most natural-looking finish, says Harris Wolf, and is buildable so you can customize how it works on your skin. SPF 15 is the icing on top. $52.00 at These products should be applied to clean, dry skin that hasn't been moisturized with lotions or oils, which can degrade the formula and cause it to break down. To apply, Harris Wolf likes to use a large, dense body brush like the Anisa Pinnacle Face & Brush to buff the product in for a seamless finish. 'This imparts a overall streak-free look, but you can also use your fingers to dab makeup directly onto more prominent veins. Wait about 15 minutes for the makeup to fully set and then blot any excess with a tissue,' he says. For bulging veins that create a textured look on skin, Harris Wolf says it's important to use a matte-finish product rather than one with a more radiant or glowing finish, which will only exacerbate their appearance. So, you may not be able to avoid turning into your mother entirely, but you can certainly keep your legs in the best possible shape. And that's worthy of a high kick. You Might Also Like Jennifer Garner Swears By This Retinol Eye Cream These New Kicks Will Help You Smash Your Cross-Training Goals
Fast Company
43 minutes ago
- Fast Company
Why Walmart just pulled 850,000 water bottles off the shelves
Walmart is recalling hundreds of thousands of reusable water bottles after multiple customers reported injuries, some of them going blind. The Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) announced the recall of Ozark Trail 64 oz Stainless Steel Insulated Water Bottles last week, alerting consumers of the potential hazard and telling them to stop using the products immediately. 'The lid can forcefully eject, posing serious impact and laceration hazards, when a consumer attempts to open the capped bottles after food, carbonated beverages or perishable beverages, such as juice or milk, are stored inside over time,' the recall notice explained. The notice also stated that some of the injuries related to the product have been serious. 'Walmart has received three reports of consumers who were injured when struck in the face by a lid forcefully ejected from these bottles upon opening. Two consumers suffered permanent vision loss after being struck in the eye.' The now-recalled product is not new to Walmart shelves. It's been on the market since 2017. However, it seems injuries have only just been recently reported. The product itself does not contain the model number, however, the number, 83-662, can be found on the packaging. The bottles measure 4.41 by 4.41 by 11.5 inches, the agency noted. In a statement to the Associated Press, Walmart said, 'The health and safety of our customers is always a top priority' and said the brand has 'fully cooperated' with CPSC to take the product off of shelves and alert customers to the danger. The company is offering full refunds for the water bottles and directed customers to return the water bottles to Walmart stores. CPSC directed customers to call Walmart directly at 800-925-6278 or visit or for additional information. Water bottles have become somewhat of a fashion statement, surging in popularity in recent years. But along with the rise in popularity has also come an uptick in safety concerns. Last year, Stanley made headlines after TikTokkers began testing the water bottles for lead, and in some cases, finding it. The company initially said there is no lead in the products, then later, clarified the statement to explain that lead is used in the manufacturing process, but that cups would have to be damaged for the lead to be exposed. A law firm sued the maker of Stanley cups over the concern, and other lawsuits followed.
