Omega-3 Fatty Acids & Behavior In Kids

Behavior issues may occur normally in any child, though they can be also an indication of attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder. Whether or not these behaviors are linked with ADHD, behavior problems may be improved with omega-3 fatty acids. Talk to your doctor before considering supplementation with omega-3 for your child, and keep in mind that this supplement does not replace any medications your child is currently taking.

Normal Behavior vs. ADHD

Most children have episodes from time to time of hyperactive or impulsive behavior. MayoClinic.com warns that these symptoms may occur normally during childhood and teenage years. Parents may note that their children have short attention spans, are not able to follow one activity for too long or may be anxious in a new environment. Some kids also have naturally higher energy and activity levels than others.

Hyperactive and impulsive behavior becomes abnormal and classified as ADHD when symptoms impair at least two areas of life -- for example, school and home activities. Also six out of nine symptoms listed in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders DSM IV --TR are present; these problems occur before the age of 7, according to Merck Manuals. Omega-3 fatty acids may help both healthy kids and ADHD sufferers to decrease behavior issues.

Omega-3 Deficiency and Behavior

There are three main omega-3 fatty acids: alpha-linoleic acid or ALA, docosahexanoic acid or DHA and eicosapentanoic acid or EPA. All omega-3 fatty acids promote normal brain development in fetuses and during infancy, while also improving brain function later in life. According to Udo Erasmus, researcher and author of "Fats that Heal, Fats that Kill," as much as 95 percent of the population may suffer from omega-3 deficiency. Hyperactive behavior issues related or not to ADHD are strongly correlated with low blood levels of omega-3.

Omega-3 Supplements Improve Behavior

Reading, spelling skills and intelligence do not appear to be correlated with omega-3 levels; however supplementation with omega-3 decreased inattention, hyperactive behavior and improved social behavior, according to research conducted at University of Wales, UK. The research team, led by A. Kirby, also notes that previous studies found omega-3 deficiencies as being linked with behavior problems in children with ADHD . This study was published in the May 2010 issue of "Research of Developmental Disability".

Considerations

If you suspect your child has ADHD, you should consult your physician because this condition requires medical treatment. Untreated ADHD in kids is correlated with adult form of ADHD, low self-esteem and academic failure. Whether or not your child behavior is part of ADHD, consult a nutritionist to recommend a special diet for your child and optimal dosage of omega-3 fatty acids.