Supplements containing omega-3 fatty acids, such as cod liver oil, are used to provide benefits for a wide range of physical and mental conditions. According to Medline Plus, fish is sometimes thought of as "brain food" because of its possible benefits for helping mental conditions, including attention deficit disorder, also known as ADD or ADHD. Cod liver oil supplements may be a helpful addition to the diet of some children suffering from this troublesome disorder.
About Cod Liver Oil
Cod liver oil has been used to provide benefits to patients suffering from a wide array of medical disorders since 18th-century England, according to author John K. Crellin in his book, "A Social History of the Medicines in the Twentieth Century." In "Healthy Living," author Geneva Gallander reports that cod liver's benefits lie primarily in its concentration of two types of omega-3 fatty acids, known as eicosapentaenoic acid, or EPA, and docosahexaenoic acid, or DHA, and its content of vitamins A and D. Children with ADHD may have a deficiency of these vital omega-3 fatty acids, says Dr. Andrew L. Stoll in his book "The Omega-3 Connection.
About ADD/ADHD
Attention deficit disorder, or ADD, causes impairment in cognitive and behavioral functioning. Common symptoms of attention deficit disorder include inattention, impulsivity and, in some children, hyperactivity, in which case the disorder is referred to as ADHD. According to Help Guide, before a diagnosis of ADD or ADHD can be made, other possibilities, such as learning disorders, mood disorders or medical disorders, should be ruled out as causes of your child's behavior. ADD and ADHD are typically treated with behavioral interventions and modifications, social and educational support and, in some cases, medication. Dietary changes and nutritional supplementation, such as the use of omega-3 fatty acids, may also provide benefits.
Clinical Evidence
Deficiencies in essential fatty acids like omega-3 may be associated with certain behavioral and learning difficulties in children with ADHD. One study, published in the February 2002 issue of "Progress in Neuro-Psychopharmacology and Biological Psychiatry," has suggested that these two essential fatty acids may provide benefits for children with ADHD. Study participants with ADHD were divided into two groups. One group received a placebo, while the other group received a supplement containing highly unsaturated fatty acids. After a 12-week period, the group receiving the supplement experienced a significant improvement in cognitive and behavioral problems. Another study published in the March 2009 issue of the "Journal of Attention Disorders" also studied the effects of omega-3 as well as omega-6 fatty acids. After a six-month period, 47 percent of study participants experienced a reduction in symptoms of ADHD.
Considerations
Further studies are still required to validate the benefits of fish oil for ADD/ADHD. Consult your child's pediatrician if you are considering using a supplement like cod liver oil. According to Medline Plus, fish oil supplements are generally considered to be safe for most people, although unpleasant side effects such as bad breath, heartburn, loose stools or heartburn can occur. High dosages of fish oil should be avoided, as this can reduce immune system functioning and may cause gastrointestinal upset.
References
- Medline Plus: Fish Oil
- "Progress in Neuro-Psychopharmacology and Biological Psychiatry"; A Randomized Double Blind Placebo-controlled Study...; A.J. Richardson and B.K. Puri; Feb. 2002
- "A Social History of the Medicines of the Twentieth Century"; John K. Crellin; 2004
- "Healthy Living"; Geneva Gallander; 2006
- "The Omega-3 Connection"; Andrew Stoll, MD; 2001
- Help Guide: ADD/ADHD in Children
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