The relationship between the Omega 3 fatty acids (Omega 3s) EPA and DHA and ADHD symptoms has been a popular focus for research over the past decade for good reason. People with ADHD are more likely to be deficient in Omega 3s and supplementation has been shown to improve the inattention and hyperactivity associated with ADHD. But there has not been enough consensus in the scientific community to determine how much and which type of Omega 3 fatty acids are needed to see a significant improvement in behaviors. In August, a new meta-analysis was published in the journal Neuropsychology that strived to help answer some of those questions for children and adolescents.
Here are the main takeaways:
Total symptoms, inattention, and hyperactivity
Cognitive performance
While the research that informed this meta-analysis shows that it is important to ensure adequate intake of Omega 3s fatty acids through foods and supplements, the treatment effect of these supplements is not as strong as medications. Therefore, you should consult with your child’s doctor to determine the proper medication and Omega 3 supplementation dosages and monitor the results over time.
More than one pill per day may need to be taken to get enough DHA and EPA. I recommend aiming for at least 500 mg DHA and 500 mg EPA; levels of at least 1,000 mg DHA and EPA each have been shown to be safe for children and adolescents (and adults).
For a discussion on how nutrition-related research such as this is completed for ADHD, read chapter 4 of “Nutrition Management for Children with Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder”. A more comprehensive review of Omega 3 fatty acids and their influence on ADHD symptoms can be found in chapter 6, along with a list of foods high in Omega 3 fatty acids and a review of available supplements. You can purchase the book on Amazon, Kindle, or here: https://www.createspace.com/7056720.
Here are the main takeaways:
Total symptoms, inattention, and hyperactivity
- Omega 3 supplementation significantly improves parental (not teacher) reports of total symptom scores, inattention, and hyperactivity.
- Supplements with EPA improved both inattention and ADHD score at any dosage level, but only improved hyperactivity once the EPA dosage reached 500 mg per day.
- One study showed that inattention and hyperactivity improved when the only Omega 3 supplemented was EPA (i.e. no DHA included). However, this is one study and these results will need to be replicated in future studies before a definitive conclusion can be drawn.
Cognitive performance
- Some children with ADHD performed better on cognitive (intellectual) tests when supplemented with Omega 3s
While the research that informed this meta-analysis shows that it is important to ensure adequate intake of Omega 3s fatty acids through foods and supplements, the treatment effect of these supplements is not as strong as medications. Therefore, you should consult with your child’s doctor to determine the proper medication and Omega 3 supplementation dosages and monitor the results over time.
More than one pill per day may need to be taken to get enough DHA and EPA. I recommend aiming for at least 500 mg DHA and 500 mg EPA; levels of at least 1,000 mg DHA and EPA each have been shown to be safe for children and adolescents (and adults).
For a discussion on how nutrition-related research such as this is completed for ADHD, read chapter 4 of “Nutrition Management for Children with Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder”. A more comprehensive review of Omega 3 fatty acids and their influence on ADHD symptoms can be found in chapter 6, along with a list of foods high in Omega 3 fatty acids and a review of available supplements. You can purchase the book on Amazon, Kindle, or here: https://www.createspace.com/7056720.