Eating more fish could affect children’s behavioural development, making them more sociable and kind, research suggests. Seafood is a source of many crucial nutrients including omega-3 fatty acids, selenium and iodine. Children are recommended to consume at least two portions per week, including one of oily fish such as salmon or mackerel.
But a study involving almost 6,000 children found almost all youngsters were not consuming enough seafood to meet NHS recommendations. Experts noted this may because parents were previously warned about overconsumption and the risk of exposure to pollutants such as mercury.
Dr Caroline Taylor, associate professor in nutrition at the University of Bristol, said: “When there’s conflicting advice, it can be difficult to know what the best course of action is.
“Our previous studies have shown that eating fish during pregnancy in the UK can have a positive effect on child development.
“This has also been found in countries where fish intakes are higher than they are here, so encouraging fish consumption is likely to have a positive effect on child development.”
The study, which used data from 5,969 participants in the Children of the 90s study, found that those who consumed the least seafood at the age of seven were likely to be less “prosocial” at the ages of seven and nine.
Prosocial behaviour includes friendly interactions, altruism and sharing, according to experts at the University of Bristol.
Dr Taylor added: “Our evidence to link fish consumption in children with the best behavioural development is clear, and we strongly recommend parents to provide at least two portions of fish a week in accordance with NHS guidelines.
“We hope these research findings empower parents with the knowledge to give their children the best start in life.”
The researchers also looked at associations between seafood intake at 7 years and IQ, but found no link.
