Between school runs, lunchboxes and ever-changing appetites, feeding children well isn’t always straightforward. Some days feel like a win, others not so much.
“Parents are under constant pressure to get nutrition right, but it’s about balance over time rather than perfection every single day,” says pharmacist and Cape Town–based integrative healthcare practitioner, Dr James Liddell.
Children are growing rapidly, and what they eat plays a crucial role in supporting their physical development, learning and engagement with the world. One group of nutrients particularly important during these early years is omega-3 fatty acids. These essential fats aren’t produced by the body and must come from food, yet they play a vital role in growth, brain function and overall development.
Building blocks for growing brains
Omega-3 fatty acids, especially DHA and EPA, are closely linked to brain, eye and nervous system development in children up to 12 years of age.
DHA, for example, is a major structural component of the brain, with levels building up from pregnancy through early childhood. “This is a critical window where consistent nutrient intake supports processes that influence how children learn and interact with the world,” explains Dr Liddell.
When real life gets in the way
Ideally, children would get everything they need from a balanced diet. In reality, many parents are navigating picky eating, busy schedules and foods that are loved one week and refused the next.
Omega-3-rich foods like oily fish, nuts and seeds aren’t always easy to include at the dinner table. For some families, this makes it challenging to ensure children are getting enough on a regular basis.
Finding practical solutions
In these situations, parents may consider a supplement designed for younger age groups to help bridge nutritional gaps. “For many families, it’s about finding something that fits seamlessly into their routine, without adding extra stress,” notes Dr Liddell.
Liquid options can be especially helpful for children who aren’t keen on tablets. Newer formulations focus on taste and ease of use. For example, Doppelherz® aktiv Omega-3 Junior Multivitamin Syrup combines omega-3 fish oil with a range of vitamins in a liquid format that can be adjusted according to a child’s age.
It also uses a micro-encapsulation process to protect omega-3 fatty acids and reduce the strong taste often associated with fish oil.
“Advances in formulation help maintain nutrient quality while overcoming common barriers like taste, which supports regular use,” adds Dr Liddell.
Alongside omega-3s, vitamins such as A, C, D, E and B-complex support immune function, normal growth, energy metabolism and overall wellbeing, covering a broader range of nutritional needs in one step.
A balanced approach
Supplements are most effective when used alongside a varied diet and healthy lifestyle.
“It’s often the small, consistent habits that have the greatest long-term impact on a child’s overall health and development,” says Dr Liddell.
Supporting everyday growth
There’s no one-size-fits-all approach to raising healthy children. What matters most is creating a supportive environment where children can grow, learn and thrive.
“With the right nutritional support in place, parents can feel confident that they’re helping their children build strong foundations for both physical and cognitive development, setting them up for healthy, active and curious lives,” concurs Dr Inga Koopman, scientific adviser for Doppelherz in Germany.
Doppelherz® aktiv Omega-3 Junior Multivitamin Syrup is available online at Ivohealth or at selected Clicks stores nationwide.
