Fish oil is available in fresh fish and as a supplement. Omega-3 fatty acids in fish oil may benefit hyperactivity and conditions like attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, or ADHD, but this has not been scientifically confirmed. The American Heart Association recommends eating fish at least twice a week to benefit from omega-3 fatty acids.
Omega-3 Fatty Acids
Omega-3 fatty acids are the essential fatty acids found in fish oil that are thought to have health benefits. The two types of omega-3s found in fish oil are eicosapentaenoic acid and docosahexaenoic acid. Fatty fish like mackerel, lake trout, herring, sardines, albacore, tuna and salmon have the most omega-3s. According to the University of Maryland Medical Center, there is a high concentration of omega-3s in the brain, which is why they may be important for cognition and behavior. An omega-3 deficiency can lead to fatigue, poor memory, dry skin, heart problems, mood swings and poor circulation.
ADHD
Hyperactivity is one of the main symptoms of ADHD in addition to inattention and impulsive behavior. ADHD usually occurs in childhood but can affect adults as well. The Mayo Clinic says the exact cause of ADHD is unknown, but it may be related to altered brain function, genes or exposure to toxins. ADHD is usually treated with prescription medications and psychotherapy; however, alternative therapies like yoga, special diets and supplements like omega-3s have also appeared to help.
Evidence
According to a December 2009 review article from "Neuropharmacology" written by French researchers at the Université François Rabelais and a 2010 article published by Dutch researchers in the "Periodical for Psychiatry", there are indications that omega-3 fatty acids may be a plausible treatment for ADHD, but current research has not confirmed a beneficial role. The UMMC says children with ADHD may be deficient in omega-3s, which can lead to learning and behavioral problems. Small studies have shown behavioral improvements in children with ADHD who took omega-3s, but the UMMC says most studies were small and poorly designed.
Dosing and Side Effects
The UMMC says dosages of fish oil supplements should be based on the amount of EPA and DHA instead of total grams of fish oil. Fish oil capsules commonly contain about 0.18 g of EPA and 0.12 g of DHA; however, this can differ between various brands. There is no recommended dose of omega-3s for children, so fish oil supplements should not be used without supervision by a physician. Adults should not take more than 3 g of total fish oil per day.
Side effects of fish oil supplements include upset stomach, gas, diarrhea and fishy aftertaste. Fish oil can increase the risk of bleeding, and therefore should not be used by people with bleeding disorders, who bruise easily or who take blood-thinning medications. Caution is also advised to diabetics who take insulin or medications to lower blood sugar, because fish oil can also lower blood sugar.
Considerations
While research has not confirmed a positive role of fish oil in treating ADHD and behavioral problems, the UMMC says it is reasonable for a person with ADHD to eat foods high in omega-3 fatty acids. Individuals who are unable to consume fish regularly may consider taking omega-3 fish oil supplements but should only do so after consulting a physician. Fish oil supplements are not regulated by the Food and Drug Administration and should only be purchased from reputable sources to ensure that they are not contaminated with mercury or other toxins.
References
- Mayo Clinic: Attention Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder
- "Neuropharmacology"; The role of fatty acids in the treatment of ADHD; S. Chalon; December 2009.
- "Tijdschrift voor Psychiatrie"; Omega-3 and omega-3 fatty acids in the treatment of children and adolescents with ADHD; A. Aben, M. Danckaerts; 2010.
- University of Maryland Medical Center: Omega-3 Fatty Acids
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