Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, commonly called ADHD, is a developmental disorder characterized by hyperactivity, inattention and impulsivity, explains the University of Maryland. ADHD affects between 3 and 5 percent of school aged children and is the most commonly diagnosed behavioral disorder. Researchers are not sure what causes ADHD, but it is thought that genetics, altered brain function and exposure to toxins may play a role.
A doctor should always be consulted before giving a child any supplements.
Fish Oil and Evening Primrose Oil
Fish oil contains the omega 3 essential fatty acids, eicosapentaenoic acid or EPA, and docosahexaenoic acid or DHA. Evening primrose oil contains the omega 6 essential fatty acid, gamma-linolenic acid, or GLA. Omega 3 and 6 fatty acids, often called polyunsaturated fatty acids cannot be produced in the body and must be obtained from food or supplements. According to the University of Maryland, these fats play an essential role in brain function.
In a study published in a 2007 issue of the "Journal of Developmental and Behavioral Pediatrics," researchers studied the affect of fish oil and evening primrose oil on children aged between 7 to 12 years with ADHD. In the background to their study the team explain that various developmental problems including ADHD have been linked to deficiencies in polyunsaturated fatty acids. The team found that taking 400mg of fish oil and 100mg of evening primrose oil daily for 30 weeks helped to improve ADHD symptoms.
The University of Maryland recommends consulting a doctor before any essential fatty acid supplements are given to a child.
Carnitine
According to the University of Maryland, the amino acid carnitine is important for energy production in the body. A 2002 study published in "Prostaglandins, Leukotrienes and Essential Fatty Acids," found that carnitine helped to improve the symptoms of ADHD.
The University of Michigan recommends taking 100mg of carnitine for each 2.2 pounds of body weight, up to a maximum of 4g daily, to help improve behaviour.
A doctor should always be consulted before giving a child a carnitine supplement.
Magnesium
According to the University of Michigan children with ADHD may have low levels of magnesium. A 1997 study published in "Magnesium Research" found that 200mg of magnesium daily for six months reduced hyperactive behavior in children with ADHD.
References
- University of Maryland: Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder
- "Journal of Developmental and Behavioral Pediatrics"; Effect of Supplementation with Polyunsaturated Fatty Acids and Micronutrients on Learning and Behavior Problems Associated with Child ADHD; Sinn N, Bryan J; 2007
- "Prostaglandins, Leukotrienes and Essential Fatty Acids"; Efficacy of carnitine in the treatment of children with attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder:VanOudheusden LJ, Scholte HR; 2002
- University of Michigan: Attention Deficit-Hyperactivity Disorder
- "Magnesium Research"; The effects of magnesium physiological supplementation on hyperactivity in children with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). Positive response to magnesium oral loading test; Starobrat-Hermelin B, Kozielec T; 1997
