Approximately 50% of the caloric intake of infants is in the form of lipids, and 10% of this is polyunsaturated fatty acids. When weaned, the baby still needs a fairly large amount of lipids. It is not possible to see essential fatty acid deficiency in infants; however, low intake of linoleic acid may delay development, as well as cause skin, liver and metabolic disorders. The healthy development of the baby's brain and nervous system before and after birth is directly related to nutrition. Olive oil is an indispensable food in this respect. Because olive oil contains fatty acids, which are vital for child development, in equal amounts to breast milk. The oleic acid found in olive oil is very beneficial for the development of the nervous tissues of the baby, who is fed by suckling his mother.
Olive oil contains the closest amount of linoleic acid to breast milk. When olive oil is added to skimmed cow's milk, it becomes a natural food source as much as breast milk. Olive oil actually provides fairly low amounts of essential fatty acids, but the linoleic/linolenic ratio is similar to that found in breast milk.
Insufficient intake of polyunsaturated fats can cause disorders in the membranes of children's brain cells, resulting in learning difficulties and behavioral disorders. It can lead to a decrease in enzymes required for fluidity in nerves, disorders in the retina, and a decrease in the resistance of cells to some toxins. The lack of linoleic acid causes slowing of development and even the emergence of some skin conditions.

Comparison of "fatty acids" found in human milk, animal and vegetable oils.