Children
Small clinical trial on omega-3s and ADHD
A new study assessed the effects of an omega 3 supplement on ADHD in 26 children. The study design was strong (double blind, randomised, placebo controlled study). A small sample of children in the study with ADHD who used n‐3 PUFA supplements achieved and maintained symptom control. The data of the present study also supported n‐3 PUFA safety and tolerability, however the number of subjects is not large and is likely to have limited the conclusions.
Bélanger SA, Vanasse M, Spahis S, Sylvestre MP, Lippé S, L'heureux F, Ghadirian P, Vanasse CM, Levy E. Omega‐3 fatty acid treatment of children with attention‐deficit hyperactivity disorder: A randomized, double‐blind, placebo‐controlled study. Paediatr Child Health. 2009 Feb;14(2):89‐98.
Omega-3 and ADHD
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This review focuses on the possible role of omega-3 in attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) and related childhood developmental disorders, evaluating the existing evidence from both research and clinical perspectives. The author Dr A. J. Richardson of Oxford University concludes that although omega-3s are not supported by current evidence as a primary treatment for ADHD or related conditions, given their relative safety and general health benefits, omega-3 fatty acids offer a promising complementary approach to standard treatments.
Richardson AJ.Omega-3 fatty acids in ADHD and related neurodevelopmental disorders. Int Rev Psychiatry. 2006;18(2):155-72.
Durham study on children published
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Portwood discusses the first randomised placebo controlled trial to be carried out on children in Durham with developmental coordination disorder which demonstrated significant effects of fatty acid supplementation on behaviour, reading and spelling performance. This group is conducting further scientific studies within Durham and neighbouring Authorities in the North of England.
Portwood MM. The role of dietary fatty acids in children's behaviour and learning. Nutr Health. 2006;18(3):233-47.
