Is EPA or DHA More Important for Kids?

Posted on July 5, 2019

If you’re reading this, you’re likely aware that omega-3 essential fatty acids hold many amazing health benefits AND are a big part of the healthy development of children. But do you know why? And how do they do it?

What we’re really talking about with omega-3s, is EPA and DHA. These important omega-3s have their own individual structures and functions throughout the body.¹ EPA and DHA are both considered essential long-chain omega-3 fatty acids because the human body cannot produce them in sufficient amounts; therefore, they must be obtained through the diet.¹

EPA (eicosapentaenoic acid) is best known for helping to reduce cellular inflammation
DHA (docosahexaenoic acid) is best known for its role in neurodevelopment, and its supplementation has been associated with learning.

So, which is better for a growing and developing child?

BOTH!

It has been a widespread belief that DHA should be emphasized in children’s omega-3 formulas, for its association with cognitive function and healthy brain and eyes and nerves during early child development.² Many prenatal omega-3 formulas also emphasize DHA for the developing baby, and there has been much publicized on the effects of DHA regarding children diagnosed with Attention Deficit Disorder (ADD) and Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD).^2,3 Children diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) have been observed to exhibit reduced plasma levels of DHA and overall omega-3 fatty acids.⁴ These factors have contributed to DHA’s reputation as the primary omega-3 for kids’ health.

But the evidence on DHA vs. EPA for kids is not as clear-cut as most think. Recent findings suggest that EPA improves cognitive symptoms in ADHD youth, specifically in attention and hyperactivity.⁵ Moreover, increased EPA levels have been shown to be associated with decreased anxiety and shyness.⁶

Because both DHA and EPA play vital roles in overall health, it’s important to consume adequate amounts each day. While each is beneficial, higher levels of DHA are especially critical for healthy child development, particularly for brain and eye health. Research shows that children of all ages are not getting enough omega-3s through diet alone, but a supplement specifically formulated for kids can help ensure they meet their daily needs.⁷

Boost your child’s brain power with Genuine Health’s omega3+ think, a premium fish oil containing EPA and high DHA to support cognitive health and brain function. Also supports healthy brain development, eyes and nerves in kids. Gluten Free, Dairy Free, No added Artificial Colours, Flavours or Sweeteners,Tested for Heavy Metals, Certified by Friend of the Sea (FOS), 3rd party tested for purity and potency, Certified B Corp, Proudly Canadian. Available in a small softgel size great for children!

Date modified: June 3^rd, 2026

References

Krupa KN, Fritz K, Parmar M. Omega-3 Fatty Acids. In: StatPearls. StatPearls Publishing; 2025. Accessed March 2, 2026. http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK564314/
DiNicolantonio JJ, O’Keefe JH. The Importance of Marine Omega-3s for Brain Development and the Prevention and Treatment of Behavior, Mood, and Other Brain Disorders. Nutrients. 2020;12(8):2333. doi:10.3390/nu12082333
Königs A, Kiliaan AJ. Critical appraisal of omega-3 fatty acids in attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder treatment. Neuropsychiatr Dis Treat. 2016;12:1869-1882. doi:10.2147/NDT.S68652
Vancassel S, Durand G, Barthélémy C, et al. Plasma fatty acid levels in autistic children. Prostaglandins Leukot Essent Fatty Acids. 2001;65(1):1-7. doi:10.1054/plef.2001.0281
Chang JPC, Su KP, Mondelli V, et al. High-dose eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) improves attention and vigilance in children and adolescents with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) and low endogenous EPA levels. Transl Psychiatry. 2019;9:303. doi:10.1038/s41398-019-0633-0
González FE, Báez RV. IN TIME: IMPORTANCE OF OMEGA 3 IN CHILDREN’S NUTRITION. Rev Paul Pediatr. 2017;35(1):3-4. doi:10.1590/1984-0462/;2017;35;1;00018
Thompson M, Hein N, Hanson C, et al. Omega-3 Fatty Acid Intake by Age, Gender, and Pregnancy Status in the United States: National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey 2003−2014. Nutrients. 2019;11(1):177. doi:10.3390/nu11010177