- Essential fatty acids, also referred to as omega 3 (ALA, DHA & EPA) are a type of polyunsaturated fats
- They are titled ‘essential’ because babies need these for their health and development but it is a nutrient which needs to come from food
- This nutrient is vital for the development of the retina in the eye as well as for your baby’s brain growth and development
- Studies also suggest that getting enough of these essential fatty acids impacts on intelligence, social skills and behaviour
- Due to its importance, it is now added to all infant formula milk
- It does also pass through breast milk so make sure you are eating lots of omega 3 rich foods too
