Omega-3 fatty acid also known as DHA is a major structural component of the retina of the eye and helps macular degeneration, which can cause vision impairment and blindness. In the views of a Professor of Public Health Nutrition at the University of Nigeria, Nsukka, Prof. Ngozi Nnam, ?Omega-3s contain a powerhouse of nutrients to ensure that babies develop properly and reach their highest potential. These nutrients help to maximize the intelligence of the child, and protect them from brain injuries such as autism. Omega-3 fatty acid is essential to the child?s development such that, if a pregnant mother is deficient in it, the child?s nervous system and immune system may never fully develop, and it can cause a lifetime unexplainable emotional, learning, and immune system disorders. Speaking at the unveiling of Peak 456, the Marketing Director, FrieslandCampina WAMCO, Mr. Tarang Gupta said ages 4 and 6 are period of rapid skeletal and muscular development, as well as continuing brain growth, hence the need to ensure children gets adequate nutrition. ?Studies have revealed that 90 percent of brain growth occurs during the first five years of life and this is a critical period when adequate nutrition is particularly important.? Gupta stressed the need for parents to feed children with appropriate nutrients for their development. According to him, ?Peak 456 is fortified with DHA, an omega-3 fatty acid which is a major structural fat found in the brain and retina of the eyes. DHA influences a child?s developmental milestones such as motor skills, speech, learning, thinking, and visual development. Peak 456 also provides essential vitamins, minerals, protein and carbohydrate to meet the nutritional requirements of those vital years after a child?s third birthday.?
