Omega-3 and DHAs for a vegetarian

[HannahHMT]

Hi everyone! :)

Although I am familiar with Omega-3s, I was wondering how highly everyone rated giving their children DHA supplements and what are the benefits?

The reason I ask is that I myself am a vegetarian and although I'm not completely against giving my children fish oils, I'd prefer to find an alternative route if possible.

I've heard about DHA supplements that are made from algae rather than fish oils- has anyone ever tried these or know what the difference is at all? And are they really more ethical/sustainable or is it just marketing hype?

Thanks!

Yes you can get vegetarian DHA. Clinically I use them with vegetarian or vegan patients, and with pregnant women. There are several brands. A good one to look at is Nuique, which also contains some EPA. Algae farming and/or harvesting is easier and more ethical than using fish oils. If you don't want to supplement you could eat eggs coming from free-ranging non-vegetarian hens (the EPA and DHA coming from grubs and meat).

Thanks for the info :)