WASHINGTON (Reuters) - People with fat in their thighs and backsides may live longer because the fat traps harmful fatty particles and actively secretes helpful compounds, according to a report published on Tuesday.

Q: I just recently started taking your fish oil capsules two months ago on the recommendation of my boss. I was complaining of hair loss. Although my hair isn't growing back in, my skin feels great, and my nails are long and strong. I also feel more focused. She also said there is some research to the efficacy of fish oil for children with autism. I have four children; three have autism. They are 11, and 10-year-old twin boys. They weigh 100, 95, and 82 pounds. What is your recommended dosage for them in order to be effective? I have to buy a liquid because it is too hard for them to swallow capsules.

A:  The research is strongly suggestive that autism is strongly associated with a deficiency of omega-3 fatty acids.  The same is true with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD).  Our published research indicated that 15 grams per day of omega-3 fatty acids in liquid significantly improved the behavior of children with ADHD who were already taking their optimal drug dosage to manage the condition.  I would suggest starting at 10 grams of EPA and DHA in a liquid format.  In our studies we used SeaHealth Plus to emulsify the liquid EPA and DHA for better absorption.