Do Omega-6 and Omega-3 Help Prevent Allergies in Children?

Question: Do Omega-6 and Omega-3 Help Prevent Allergies in Children?

Allergic diseases, such as allergic rhinitis, asthma and atopic dermatitis, have become increasingly common over the past few decades.

As a result, there has been a focus on the prevention of allergies in infants and young children, many strategies of which involve dietary supplementation for the pregnant or breastfeeding mother. One form of possible allergy prevention involves dietary supplementation with omega-3 or omega-6 fatty acids.

Answer: The prospect is appealing, as these fatty acids are part of an overall healthy diet. But, in short, there's just not enough supporting research to warrant spending the money on supplements for this purpose.

A little background:

Omega-3 fatty acids are predominantly found in fish oils, which have been shown to have anti-inflammatory effects that may counteract allergic inflammation. In addition, fish oils contain eicosapentaenoic acid, which may have anti-asthma effects. Various studies have suggested that diets high in omega-3 fatty acids in pregnant/breastfeeding mothers and in infants can reduce the chance of allergic disease in high-risk children.

Omega-6 fatty acids contain precursors (building blocks) of inflammatory chemicals released from eosinphils called eicosanoids. While it seems counterintuitive, past studies have suggested that diets high in omega 6 fatty acids can reduce the severity of atopic dermatitis in high-risk children.

But, a meta-analysis (an analysis examining many studies at once in order to determine if a consistent benefit exists) looked at the benefit of omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids at preventing allergic disease. While some studies showed small benefits for both, there was no consistent benefit for either type of fatty acid in the prevention of allergic diseases. These authors state that there is no clear scientific evidence to support the use of omega-3 or omega-6 fatty acids for the prevention of allergic disease, and most experts agree.

Learn more about the prevention of allergic diseases in children.

_Source:

_{Anandan C, Nurmatov U, Sheikh A. Omega 3 and 6 Oils for Primary Prevention of Allergic Disease: Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis. Allergy. 2009;64:840-8.}

_{DISCLAIMER: The information contained in this site is for educational purposes only, and should not be used as a substitute for personal care by a licensed physician. Please see your physician for diagnosis and treatment of any concerning symptoms or medical condition.}