Resolvins and the Inflammatory Process in Childhood

Resolvins have unique characteristics. Although most people know that fish oil is anti-inflammatory, they do nor know that the eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and docosapentaenoic acid (DHA) in fish oil make resolvins that are thought to have more potent anti-inflammatory and pro-resolving actions than EPA and DHA themselves. It turns out that resolvins are good for adults and especially for children because of their unique needs at their age.

Resolvins are specialized pro-resolving mediators (SPM) known as resolvins, protectins, lipoxins, and, maresins. They "exert potent directed actions on leukocytes" that are involved with vascular balance, reduced neutrophil influx, cellular debris clearance, cytokine balance, tissue repair, and reprogramming of blood cell transcriptomes.

Just like the inflammation response is a natural response, resolving inflammation is a natural response. Resolvins, made from the EPA and DHA of fish oil, help to maintain a "resolution" response to inflammation. Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), which are utilized to combat inflammation, acutely negate the formation of inflammatory prostaglandins of the 2 series from arachidonic acid. However, they block the process by which resolvins work, and, in turn, chronically affect the inflammation  process by not allowing it to "resolve."

Chronic or dysregulated inflammation can lead to adverse health outcomes, especially in vulnerable populations, such as children. Children's immune systems are still maturing, making them susceptible to both exaggerated inflammatory responses and difficulty resolving inflammation. 

Uncontrolled inflammation in childhood can have long-term consequences down the road in adulthood. Thus, finding safe and effective ways to support a healthy immune response is of paramount importance. Recent research highlights the role of inflammation in pediatric populations. They have demonstrated the ability to support a number of dysfunctions that arise from unresolved inflammation in several systems, such as gastrointestinal, respiratory, immune, neuronal, and neurodevelopment , among others.

When choosing a fish oil supplement, be sure to look for a high-quality fish oil. Fish oil for children is usually higher in DHA than EPA because the need for DHA in brain development is so critical. The recommended adequate daily intake of EPA and DHA in children 2 or older is 250mg, in one or more servings, and at least 100mg of DHA daily consumed during the first two years of life.