by A new study suggests that children who consumed the slightest seafood at the age of seven have a low prosocial behavior at the age of seven and nine years. Prosocial behavior – such as friendliness, sharing and altruism – seemed to be positive with fish consumption.
Seafood delivers important nutrients, including omega-3 fatty acids, selenium, iodine, vitamin D and choline. These nutrients contribute to a balanced diet and support the development of the brain.
Experts recommend children to eat at least two weekly portions of fish, with one of greasy fish such as salmon or mackerel being served.
Consumption of seafood and behavior of the child
Researchers at the University of Bristol analyzed data from 5,969 participants in the children of the 90s. This long-term research received new funds of 5.2 million GBP ($ 6.6 million). The study created the data for social and demographic factors to ensure precise results.
Earlier studies mainly focused on fish consumption during pregnancy. The effects were examined more on babies than on the ongoing development of children.
In the current study, however, the importance of research on fish intake during childhood is emphasized.
The results showed that children who did not eat seafood to have a 35% higher risk of developing a lower prosocial behavior and a 43% higher risk at the age of nine at the age of seven.
Those who consumed seafood between 1 and 190 g per week still had a risk of 25 to 30%than those who met the NHS recommendation of at least 190 g a week.
Causes regarding the consumption of seafood
Many children in the study ate fewer seafood than NHS recommendations. One reason could be concerns about pollutants such as mercury.
Parents often receive mixed messages about the safety of seafood and make nutritional decisions more difficult. However, experts find that the advantages of fish consumption outweigh potential risks if the admission corresponds to the guidelines.
Prosocial behavior develops between one and two years. It becomes more complex when children grow. The early promotion of these behaviors supports social development and general well -being. Good nutrition plays an important role in this process.
Essential nutrients in brain development
Seafood are a main source for omega-3 fatty acids such as DHA and EPA, which support brain function and emotional well-being. While the body can produce small quantities from other sources, the absorption of nutrition is required to maintain optimal levels.
Iodine and selenium also contribute to neuro development. Iodine plays a crucial role in thyroid hormone production that regulates brain growth.
Selen supports antioxidant functions and helps with thyroid hormone metabolism. Cholin supports neurotransmitter production, which affects memory and cognitive function. Vitamin D supports calcium absorption and immune function and contribute to general health.
The study measured the prosocial behavior based on questionnaires. The parents reported on their child’s social interactions at the age of seven and nine years. The results showed that children who ate more seafood showed better social behavior.
The researchers also examined a possible connection between the intake of seafood and the IQ. However, they found no significant connection between fish consumption and intelligence.
Development of seafood and child child
“If there is contradictory advice, it can be difficult to know what the best procedure is. Our previous studies have shown that eating fish during pregnancy in Great Britain can have a positive impact on the development of children, ”said Dr. Caroline Taylor, Associate Professor of Nutrition at the University of Bristol.
“This was also found in countries in which the fish recordings are higher than here. Therefore, the promotion of fish consumption has probably been positive about the development of children.”
Dr. Taylor said that the evidence of linking fish consumption in children with the best behavioral development is clear and that your team emphatically recommends that the parents provide at least two parts of the fish per week according to the NHS guidelines.
“We hope that these research results will enable parents to give their children the best start to their children.”
Considerations on public health
The NHS recommends that children should consume two portions of seafood per week, including some oily fish. However, due to concerns regarding dioxins and PCBs, girls should not have more than two parts of oily fish per week that can accumulate in the body over time.
The FAO/which has recognized the advantages of seafood in all phases of life. However, they also emphasize the need for region -specific guidelines based on local fish contamination levels, nutrient content and nutritional patterns.
Data from the British National Diet and Nutrition Survey show that children consume less than the recommended amount of seafood. Many factors contribute to this, including concerns regarding mercury, taste processes, costs and limited availability.
The treatment of these obstacles caused by public health could help improve childhood nutrition.
The long -term study continues
Children of the 90s study have played an important role in health research for over three decades. The study was founded by Professor Jean Golding in the early 1990s and contributed to more than 3,000 research work.
With the latest funding thrust of £ 5.2 million, the study will continue their research. The focus will now extend to the third generation of the participants. These efforts will provide valuable insights into the health and development of children in the coming years.
The study is published in the European Journal of Nutrition.
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