The Omega-3 Effect

September 3, 2012
A pioneer in pediatric wellness and nutrition, William Sears (Sears Parenting Library) says his belief in the life-changing potential of omega-3 fatty acids is rooted in personal as well as professional experience, including a 1997 diagnosis of colon cancer. With son James, also a pediatrician and cohost of the TV talk show The Doctors, Sears has compiled a definitive guide to these healthy fats: what they are, how they differ, why you need them, and how to get enough in the right balance. Sears is an extremely personable guide, who rarely uses technical jargon and avoids complicated explanations. He is also passionate about fish and fish oils. Vetted by a panel of seven experts, including Dean Ornish, the material positions the omega-3s EPA and DHA as miracle workers for rejuvenating brain tissue after injury; healing conditions like heart disease, diabetes, and cancer; helping readers to lose weight; and ensuring optimal physical and cognitive development in children at every stage, beginning in the womb. For parents of children with learning and behavioral problems, the authors include hopeful stories and suggestions for treatment with food sources and supplements; and for those confused by controversies surrounding farmed and wild seafood, there is a chapter on safe choices and tips for making seafood more appealing to those, like many children, with an antipathy toward it. Q&As address dosages, potential conflicts with prescription drugs, challenges for vegetarians who do not eat fish, giving omega-3s to pets, and other common concerns.