Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder is a childhood disorder that can continue into adulthood. Thought to be caused by a combination of genetics, environmental and social factors, and nutrition, ADHD is often treated with a combination of medication, therapy and behavioral therapy. Omega-3 fatty acids may not be used as a primary treatment for ADHD, but can be used as a complement to other treatment options.
Adult ADHD
Although many children diagnosed with ADHD carry some symptoms into their adult life, it's possible to be diagnosed with ADHD as an adult without having been treated for ADHD when you were younger. You may have had symptoms of ADHD that were diagnosed as something else, or you may have been labeled a dreamer or slacker. You might have developed coping techniques as a child that don't work with the added pressures of adulthood. Fortunately, it's never too late to begin treatment for ADHD.
Symptoms in adults include: difficulty focusing, struggling to complete simple tasks, trouble following directions, losing the thread in conversations and being easily distracted.
Omega-3 Fatty Acids
A type of polyunsaturated fat found primarily in fish oil, omega-3 fatty acids, are proven to help lower cholesterol levels and reduce your risk of heart disease. Omega-3 fatty acids are essential -- you're body can't produce them so they must be added in to your diet. Besides their positive effect on lipid levels, omega-3 fatty acids are critical for normal brain development. The "American Journal of Psychiatry" reports that omega-3s can even help with depression.
Omega-3s and ADHD
There are two specific types of omega-3 fats, DHA, short for docosahexaenoic acid, and EPA, or eicosapentaenoic acid, that people with ADHD may be missing, or have in very low amounts. According to the University of Maryland Medical Center, boys with lower levels of omega-3 fatty acids had more learning and behavioral problems -- such as trouble sleeping and temper tantrums -- than boys with normal omega-3 levels. Although more research is needed, based on preliminary evidence, UMMC states "eating foods that are high in omega-3 fatty acids is a reasonable approach for someone with ADHD." A study published in 2006 in the "International Review of Psychiatry" says, "given their relative safety and general health benefits, omega-3 fatty acids offer a promising complementary approach to standard treatments."
Treating Adult ADHD
Omega-3 fatty acids may be used in conjunction with more conventional ADHD treatments. Although research concerning omega-3s is promising, other treatments -- therapy, behavior modification and medication -- are still needed.
Speak to your doctor before beginning omega-3 supplementation; omega-3s in large doses may cause blood thinning and can increase fasting glucose levels in diabetics.
References
- National Institute of Mental Health: Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder
- University of Maryland Medical Center: Omega-3 Fatty Acids
- "International Review of Pschiatry"; Omega-3 Fatty Acids in ADHD and Related Neurodevelopmental Disorders; AJ Richardson; April 2006
- "American Journal of Psychiatry"; Omega-3 Treatment of Childhood Depression -- A Controlled Double-Blind Pilot Study; H Nemets, et al.; June 2006
- Help Guide: Adult ADD/ADHD
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