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Cod Liver Oil for Autistic Children

Jul 14, 2011 | By Ed Donner
Cod Liver Oil for Autistic Children
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Cod liver oil contains two types of omega-3 fatty acids, EPA and DHA, that are known to have many beneficial effects for physical and mental health. EPA, in particular, has proven helpful in the treatment of psychiatric problems like bipolar disorder, depression and schizophrenia, and it may be helpful for attention deficit hyperactivity disorder as well. A growing body of research suggests that EPA may also improve certain problems associated with autism, Asperger's syndrome or other disorders of the autism spectrum.

Essential Fatty Acid Function

Essential fatty acids (EFAs) such as EPA and DHA, which are contained in cod liver oil, contribute to the growth, development, maintenance and repair of every cell of your body. EFAs, which are converted into the regulatory compounds of eicosanoids, leukotrienes and prostaglandins, participate in most cellar activity. For example, EFAs in cod liver oil carry oxygen via the bloodstream to the cells and then transport oxygen into the cell to assist in the metabolism of carbohydrates and fats to create energy. The EFAs in cod liver oil also affect the permeability of the cell membrane to more easily allow necessary compounds into the cell.

Oxidative Stress in Autism

Essential fatty acids in cod liver oil might reduce the oxidative stress that possibly contributes to the development of autism. Oxidative stress occurs when unstable oxygen molecules circulating in the bloodstream take electrons from cell walls, mitochondria and other cells in the body. Oxidative stress may play a critical role in damaging brains cells during early development, contributing to the development of autism. It is thought that autistic children might be genetically vulnerable to the negative effects of free radicals. Several studies, such as one published in the November 2005 edition of "Prostaglandins, Leukotrienes and Essential Fatty Acids," indicate that autistic children show evidence of greater oxidative stress.

Fatty Acid Deficiency

The fatty acids in cod liver oil might prove helpful in treating fatty acid deficiencies that seem to afflict some autistic children. A growing body of research suggests that a subgroup of children with autism or Asperger's syndrome show symptoms of a condition called fatty acid deficiency, or FAD. These children have lower-than-usual essential fatty acids and also show a wide range of symptoms that include dry skin, brittle nails, eczema, cracked skin, distractibility, hyperactivity, difficulty concentrating, poor working memory, mood swings, poor wound healing, allergies, sleep problems and excessive thirst.

Supplementation Effects

Several studies indicate that fatty acids from cod liver oil or other EFA supplements might relieve certain symptoms of autism or Asperger's syndrome. A placebo-controlled, double-blind randomized study published in 2007 in "Biological Psychiatry" found that omega-3 fatty acids reduced hyperactivity and stereotypy -- repetitive, ritualistic movements, postures and utterances -- in autistic children. Other studies have produced positive results but have methodological weaknesses. For example, a study published in the 2004 "Prostaglandins, Leukotrienes and Essential Fatty Acids" relied on parents' reports of symptoms and was not placebo-controlled, and a case study published in the "Journal of Autism and Development Disorders" presented compelling results but only evaluated one child. While these early findings show promise, further research will be necessary before omega-3 fatty acid supplements such as cod liver oil are established clearly as effective for the treatment of autistic spectrum disorders.

Home Treatment

There are no established guidelines for the optimal dosage of cod liver oil or other omega-3 fatty acid supplements in the treatment of autism. Studies of school-aged children have used 1 to 1.5 g of omega-3 fatty supplements. According to the DHA-EPA Omega-3 Institute, 1- to 3-year-old children should have 0.7 mg daily and 4- to 8-year-old children should have 0.9 g daily. The international Cod Liver Omega-3 Foundation advises that children take 200 mg daily and adults 450 mg daily. Child-friendly liquid and chewable supplements are available for children who have trouble swallowing pills.

Precautions

Cod liver oil contains high amounts of vitamins A and D, and larger doses of cod liver oil can easily cause your child to exceed RDA standards for vitamins A and D. Also, because cod liver oil is derived from the liver, it is more prone to tainting with mercury or other contaminants than fish oil. Consider using fish or flaxseed oil instead of cod liver oil. Always consult with your child's prescribing physician before adding supplements to your child's diet.

References

Article reviewed by Eric Althoff Last updated on: Jul 14, 2011

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