Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder, or ADHD, is the most prevalent childhood behavioral disorder. Symptoms of ADHD include difficulty focusing, restlessness and impulsiveness. ADHD often affects school performance and interpersonal relationships. Medication is the primary method of treating ADHD, with Ritalin being the most prescribed pharmaceutical. Fish oil has recently been touted as an alternative treatment for ADHD.
Theories
Theories about the reasons a child develops ADHD are numerous, but some factors are widely accepted. According to the University of Maryland Medical Center, ADHD is likely genetic and most people with ADHD will have at least one close relative who also suffers from it. ADHD may also result from unfavorable pregnancy conditions like environmental toxins and tobacco, drug and alcohol use. The brains of children with ADHD are different from their peers because areas controlling concentration are not as active, and neurotransmitters like dopamine act differently.
Fish Oil
Fish oil contains dicosahexanoic acid and eicosapentaenoic acid, types of omega-3 fatty acids commonly referred to as DHA and EPA. Omega-3s are crucial for nervous system development from birth to six months and are supplied to infants through breast milk. Omega-3s play a role in brain health and function throughout your entire life, but most Americans don't get enough in their diet. Fish oil may also contain Omega-6 fatty acids. Omega-6s also play a role in nervous system health and development, but most American consume enough omega-6s and don't need supplementation. The effect of omega-3s and omega-6s on nervous system health has implications for many disorders, including ADHD.
Success
A study in the May 2005 issue of the journal "Pediatrics" showed that supplementing a child's diet with fish oil was more effective than Ritalin for treating symptoms of ADHD. Children taking fish oil had improved spelling, reading and behavior. Dr. Paul Montgomery, an author of the study, says that missing polyunsaturated fats in the brain may contribute to disorders like ADHD and fatty acids from fish oil can help to make up for these missing fats. He recommends consumption of a fish oil that contains a 4:1 ratio of omega-3s than omega-6s, at a dose of 1 g per day for children.
Considerations
Some types of fish have harmful toxins in them, like methylmercury, dioxins and polychlorinated biphenyls. Supplements are not strictly regulated by the Food and Drug Administration, so choose a fish oil brand with caution. Products that are labeled as pharmaceutical grade are the most pure. Milligrams of DHA and EPA should be listed on the product's label. Consult your doctor before supplementing with fish oil or administering it to your child. A healthy diet and adequate sleep are also important for alleviating symptoms of ADHD.
References
- ADDitude; Alternative ADHD Treatment: Fish Oil; Tina Adler
- University of Maryland Medical Center: Docosahexanoic Acid
- University of Maryland Medical Center: Omega-6s
- University of Maryland Medical Center: ADHD
- University of Maryland Medical Center: ADD/ADHD
- MayoClinic.com: Omega-3 Fatty Acids, Fish Oil, Alpha-Linoleic Acid
