Fish oil supplements contain high amounts of omega-3 fatty acids, essential fatty acids the body needs but can't produce. Omega-3 fatty acids play an important role in normal growth and development and in cognitive and behavioral function. While omega-3 fatty acids may improve symptoms of some mental health problems, studies have found only inconclusive evidence for its effects on autism spectrum disorders.
Research
In 2009, scientists at the University of California, San Francisco, and the University of California, Davis, conducted a systematic review of studies investigating the effects of omega-3 fatty acids on autism spectrum disorders. The review, published in the "Journal of Autism and Developmental Disorders," looked at six small studies, including one randomized control trial that found no improvements in stereotype and hyperactivity with omega-3 treatment among children with autism disorders. The review also looked at five uncontrolled studies in which four found some improvements in learning and behavior and one did not. The authors of the review concluded that research has not yet provided sufficient evidence to determine omega-3 fatty acid's effectiveness for treating autism spectrum disorders.
Use
About 28.7 percent of children with autism spectrum disorders use omega-3 fatty acid supplements as a complementary and alternative medical therapy, according to the 2009 review in the "Journal of Autism and Developmental Disorders." Studies have shown that children with autism spectrum disorders have low levels of omega-3 fatty acids, as do many children with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder and schizophrenia. Neural tissues contain concentrated amounts of omega-3 fatty acids, and deficiencies in these acids may interfere with normal brain development, scientists suspect. Still, inconclusive evidence exists to support the use of omega-3 acids to treat autism.
Autism Treatment
No medications exist to cure autism spectrum disorders or to treat its primary symptoms, according to the CDC. Some medications may be able to help autistic children maintain energy and concentration and manage depression or seizures. Early intervention with behavior and communication therapy and training can improve development in children with autism, suggests the CDC.
Omega-3 and Other Mental Health Conditions
Some studies have found that omega-3 fatty acids may improve symptoms of mental conditions, including bipolar disorder, depression and schizophrenia. Omega-3 fatty acids may boost the effectiveness of antidepressants, and they may reduce the frequency or severity of mood swings in individuals with bipolar disorder; however, more research needs to be done to investigate the use of omega-3 for treating mental conditions, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center.
References
- University of Maryland Medical Center: Omega-3 Fatty Acids
- "Journal of Autism and Developmental Disorders"; Omega-3 Fatty Acids for Autistic Spectrum Disorder: A Systematic Review; Stephen Bent, et al.; August 2009
- Harvard School of Public Health; Ask the Expert: Omega-3 Fatty Acids; Dr. Frank Sacks
- Centers for Disease Control and Prevention: Autism Spectrum Disorders Treatment
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