Stunting is a recognised problem: evidence for the potential benefits of omega-3 long chain polyunsaturated fatty acids

Stunting remains a major nutritional problem worldwide, especially in middle and low-income countries including Indonesia. A number of nutrition feeding programs to cure stunting is basically addressing the problem of malnutrition. These programs are particularly designed to promote recovery of normal metabolic function and weight gain. The currently available remedial formula for malnutrition contains energy and nutrients to recover their weight, but there is less nutrition that would support optimal functional development of tissues including central nervous system. Research has well documented that sufficient intakes of dietary omega-3 long chain polyunsaturated fatty acids (n-3 LCPUFA) are important for optimal health throughout the lifespan, especially on brain development and cognition. We review evidence for the role of food sources of these fatty acids on children's health and growth. There is very little work done on remedial formula enriched with n-3 LCPUFA for malnutrition and optimal health, highlighting a need for intervention studies investigating the health benefits of the formula for malnutrition and optimal health, which may prevent stunting but also may promote optimal health.