Fish Oil Supplements for Schoolchildren: A Pilot Intervention in a Maltese School for Policy Formulation in School Communities

Abstract

Introduction: Fish oil containing vitamin D used to be administered in Maltese schools to treat rickets. The oil-soluble vitamins A and D are important for the immune system and vision (vitamin A). Its omega-3 is indicated for behaviour, concentration and learning. It can help in dyslexia, attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, and autism. A pilot project aimed at spreading fish oil awareness and encouraging the government to give this supplement to schoolchildren was set up. Methods: Students from Years 3-6, (7-11 years) attending a girls’ school participated. Risk assessments and parents’ consent were taken. The soft chewable supplement contained 120mg omega-3, 667 I.U. vitamin A and 100 I.U. vitamin D. Compliance, dropouts and reasons for refusing to take the capsules were recorded. The students’ parents/guardians were given a short questionnaire. Results: Findings are based on 46 schooldays. 73 students started the programme. Due to vomiting or swallowing difficulties 58 girls continued the intervention. There were 43 respondents (parents/guardians) for the questionnaire. 86% were strongly in favour of this initiative; 14% were slightly less in favour. All respondents wanted this initiative to remain ongoing. Conclusion: Given some recommendations for improvements, the results are hoped to initiate discussions for a national policy for fish oil at school.