Fish oils contain essential omega-3 fatty acids that aid in brain development and have anti-inflammatory properties. About 30 percent of children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) are currently using omega-3 supplements as an alternative therapy for autism, according to a 2008 review of research by three California doctors. However, research and evidence for its action are scarce, with only six research studies using specifically omega-3 supplementation in children with ASD in existence as of 2010.
Benefits
Omega-3 fatty acids have numerous health benefits, some of which are thought to aid in the treatment of neurological disorders such as autism, Asperger's syndrome, attention deficit hyperactivity disorder and schizophrenia. DHA (docosahexaenoic acid) and EPA (eicosapentaenoic acid) are types of omega-3 found in seafood and algae that are needed for brain development. Multiple studies have shown that children with ASD have a higher rate of deficiency in omega-3 compared to children with typical brain function. It is possible that correcting this balance improves brain function and subsequently improves autism symptoms.
Insufficient Evidence
Dr. G. Paul Amminger and Dr. Martha Feucht from the Medical University of Vienna found an improvement in behavior with omega-3 supplementation in seven children receiving the supplement compared to six who were receiving a placebo. Smaller studies without placebo control, have reported minor improvements in anxiety, irritability, language and learning. However, these studies are small and not well controlled; meaning other factors besides supplementation may have caused the change in symptoms. Some subjects withdrew from the studies after their parents reported autism symptoms actually worsened. Improvements may vary from child to child based a variety of factors such as severity of symptoms, treatments and therapies the child is enrolled in, or other nutritional deficiencies that exist.
Expert Insight
A 2008 review of research led Stephen Bent from the Osher Center of Integrative Medicine at University of California, to conclude that there is currently inadequate evidence to support the use of omega-3 supplements as an effective treatment for children with ASD. There are other experts to argue this conclusion. Dr. Amminger concluded that omega-3 may be a useful treatment option for autism, as his study showed promising improvements in behavior.
Safety
While omega-3 supplements are considered safe by the FDA for adult consumption, doses appropriate for children remain ambiguous. Stephen Bent reports that past studies used doses between 247mg and 1,540mg of EPA and DHA with no reports of major side effects or complications. However, omega-3 can cause blood to thin due to its anti-inflammatory properties. You should seek the advice of a healthcare professional if you have a blood-clotting disease or are currently taking blood thinners.
Considerations
Fish oil supplements are manufactured from fish that may be contaminated with mercury. High-grade fish oil supplements are distilled to remove impurities, which is advertised on the bottle. Consider eating dietary sources of omega-3 from nuts, flaxseed, salmon and tuna, which contain other healthful nutrients important for a well-balanced diet.
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