Ask the Pharmacist
Mild dyslexia and learning disabilities: which omega-3 supplement?
Good morning, I have two children aged 8 and 13. G., 8, has mild dyslexia and has learning and concentration difficulties, while M., 13, has concentration difficulties. They both play basketball. I would like to know which supplement is best for them. I thank you for your attention. Sonia
Dear Sonia,
Considering the different needs you have outlined, I recommend the following:
For 8-year-old G. with mild dyslexia, the most suitable product is Omegor Mind. In addition to Omega-3 EPA and DHA it also contains omega-6 GLA, a clinically tested Bacopa monnieri extract-Bacomind®, and optimal levels of all B vitamins, zinc and vitamin C.
The Bacopa extract used in Omegor Mind was tested for 4 months on children with learning disabilities ranging in age from 4 to 18 years. This extract showed improvement in various memory-related functions (working memory, logical memory, memory related to personal life, visual and auditory memory). The dosage used in this study (225 mg/day) corresponds to the dosage of Bacomind found in 2 capsules of Omegor Mind.
The recommended dose is precisely 2 capsules per day to be taken at a meal (breakfast, lunch or dinner). Omegor Mind is definitely recommended if you want to improve your child's learning abilities and provide the most useful nutrients for energy utilization of food.
On the other hand, as far as 13-year-old M is concerned, the most useful product is VitaDHA liquid, a dietary supplement in single-dose vials of lemon-flavored fish oil. Each vial of VitaDHA provides a high dosage of DHA 1250 mg/phiala the fatty acid most present at the level of the nervous system and for this reason most indicated in cases of attentional deficits.When optimal amounts of DHA are present in cell membranes these are in a more fluid state, they release chemical messengers more rapidly into the synaptic space and electrical signals pass more easily from one neuron to another.
Brain cells whose membranes are rich in DHA therefore seem to communicate more rapidly with each other.In these cases the recommended dose for VitaDHA is 1 vial per day by having the oil taken as is or mixed into yogurt, smoothies or cold or lukewarm dishes. An additional suggestion is to store the supplement in the refrigerator or freezer because the cold reduces any odor or taste that might not be appreciated.The minimum period of supplementation in these cases is 2-3 months, which can be extended depending on individual needs and requirements.
The capsules in the Omegor Mind product are small softgels that are generally easier to swallow than traditional capsules, but in case G is unable to swallow them then I would also opt in his case for the VitaDHA liquid product.
I remain available for further information.
Sincerely,
Dr. Rosaria Ramondino Pharmacist and Pharmaceutical Chemist
