Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is a behavioral disorder that generally manifests in early childhood. Prescription medications are available for use in treating the disorder, but are not always completely effective at controlling symptoms. Current research is evaluating ways of controlling the disease, and several studies have been conducted on the use of fish oils, which contain essential fatty acids known as omega-3 or omega-6 fatty acids, in the treatment of ADHD.
Fatty Acids and ADHD
The causes of ADHD are not completely understood, but one study, published in the "Journal of Child Psychology and Psychiatry," identified lower fatty-acid concentrations in the blood of children with ADHD compared to children without ADHD, which suggests that a deficiency of fatty acids may play a role in the development of ADHD. Another study, published in the "American Journal of Clinical Nutrition," also showed lower fatty acid levels in boys with ADHD, but noted that the reason the fatty acid levels were low was not clear.
Types of Fatty Acids
There are two essential fatty acids (EFA) that are generally considered in this theory: omega-3 fatty acids and omega-6 fatty acids. Both of these essential fatty acids are necessary for the proper development and functioning of neurons in the brain. EFA cannot be produced in the body like other kinds of fats and must be obtained from dietary sources.
Fatty Acid Supplements
It is possible that supplementing essential fatty acids in children with ADHD would raise their blood levels and resolve some symptoms of the disorder. A study published in the medical journal "Nutrition" attempted to determine whether EFA supplementation could improve the behavior of children with ADHD. This study suggests a modest improvement in behavior and symptoms with the supplementation of EFA in the child's diet.
Fish
Fish contain some of the highest concentrations of EFA, according to the Food and Drug Administration. The fish with the highest concentration of omega-3 EFA are salmon, mackerel, anchovies, sardines and albacore tuna. Experts suggest commercial fish oil capsules, as children are unlikely to get enough EFA in their diets. Fish oil supplements containing high doses of omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids are available in pharmacies and health-food stores. The suggested dose for supplemental treatment of children with ADHD is one gram of EFA per day.
EFA Supplements
Large-scale, randomized clinical trials have not yet been conducted, and so the official recommendations for the treatment of this disorder do not include EFA supplements. EFA has been studied primarily as a complementary medicine therapy for ADHD. Complementary medicine is used in addition to proven and approved treatments for a disease, not as the primary medical therapy. It is possible that supplementation of EFA could have benefits as part of an overall treatment plan for ADHD, but should not be the primary means of controlling the disease.
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