ADHD, or attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, most commonly affects school-age children and is characterized by impulsive behavior, inattention and hyperactivity. ADHD can have a serious impact on your ability to function properly and often requires drug therapy to help improve symptoms. Fish oil might also be beneficial for individuals with ADHD, although evidence is limited. Don't take fish oil in place of prescription treatments, and talk to your doctor before using.
Properties and Potential Benefits
Fish oil is an alternative remedy for a variety of ailments including heart disease, glaucoma and Alzheimer's disease. MedlinePlus notes that it may also play a role in the treatment of ADHD. Fish oil is a rich source of omega-3 fatty acids, which are a form of polyunsaturated fatty acids. You can get fish oil by eating oily fish such as mackerel, tuna, salmon and herring, but it is also available as a dietary supplement in capsules.
Dosage
Since fish oil is not a proven remedy for ADHD symptoms, guidance regarding a suitable dose is limited. According to MedlinePlus, a supplement containing 400 mg fish oil and 100 mg of evening primrose is sometimes used to alleviate symptoms. Check with your doctor or a pharmacist about whether this dose is suitable for you.
Effectiveness
There is no conclusive proof that fish oil can improve ADHD, but some study findings show it may hold promise. For example, research published in the October 2010 issue of "Acta Paediatrica" show that eicosapentaenoic acid, an omega-3 fatty acid found in fish oil, improves ADHD symptoms in children. An article published in the Dutch medical journal "Tijdschrift Voor Psychiatrie" in 2010 notes, however, that although omega-3 fatty acids may cause a substantial reduction in ADHD symptoms in children, there is no evidence to show omega-3 is an effective treatment for adult ADHD.
Safety Considerations
According to MedlinePlus, taking up to 3 g of fish oil daily is probably safe for most people, but it could cause side effects including bad breath, nausea and nosebleeds.Taking more than 3 g daily might not be safe, because it might increase the risk of bleeding. Avoid fish oil if you have a seafood allergy, and get medical advice before using if you have bipolar disorder, diabetes, HIV, depression or high blood pressure.
References
- University of Maryland Medical Center: Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder
- MedlinePlus: Fish Oil
- "Acta Paediatrica"; EPA Supplementation Improves Teacher-Rated Behaviour and Oppositional Symptoms in Children With ADHD; Gustafsson PA, et al.; October 2010
- "Tijdschrift Voor Psychiatrie"; Omega-3 and Omega-6 Fatty Acids in the Treatment of Children and Adolescents with ADHD; A. Aben and M. Danckaerts; 2010
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