Although the diagnosis of autism may be made later in an individual's life, the symptoms of autism, such as problematic communication, social skills and behavior, appear before a child celebrates her third birthday. A reluctance by pediatricians and psychiatrists to confirm a diagnosis of autism may explain autistic adults who finally receive the diagnosis many years later. The large number of ongoing studies addressing the possible benefit of fish oil for autistic children exceeds the number of studies that examine fish oil's effect for autistic adults.
Adults and Autism
Autism is a spectrum disorder, meaning that the severity and frequency of symptoms may vary widely from individual to individual. The variability in the symptoms of autism affects most individuals throughout their lifetime. However, the adult's treatment experiences in childhood and coping efforts in adulthood may disguise the severity and range of symptoms. Adults may benefit from modified versions of novel therapies and interventions, such as fish oil, originally researched and designed for autistic children.
Benefits of Fish Oil
The health benefits of fish oil originate in the omega-3 fatty acids, which the body cannot produce. Although scientific research validates the benefit of fish oil to lower high triglycerides and prevent heart disease and stroke, fish oil demonstrates possible benefits for other conditions, such as high blood pressure, rheumatoid arthritis, attention deficit-hyperactivity disorder and bipolar disorder. Researchers continue to examine if omega-3 fatty acids decrease symptoms of autism. Results from the study published in "Biological Psychiatry" in February 2007 suggest that omega-3 fatty acids may help some children with autism.
Research
Researchers gave 19 young adults with severe autism fish oil supplements for six weeks to determine the possible benefits of omega-3 fatty acids for autistic adults. Benefits were not observed related to the severity or frequency of problem behaviors. However, the small sample size that excluded other individuals from the autism spectrum suggests the need for additional studies.
Implications
Previous research suggests that fish oil may be beneficial for some autistic children. Although current research does not substantiate similar benefits for adults with autism, the research focused on a small number of subjects with severe autism. Future research that includes more subjects and represents more diversity from the autism spectrum is warranted. Fish oil supplements for the treatment of autism should be taken under a doctor's supervision.
References
- "Archives of Medical Research"; Behavioral Effects of Omega-3 Fatty Acid Supplementation in Young Adults With Severe Autism; P. Politi, et al.; October 2008
- "Biological Psychiatry"; Omega-3 Fatty Acids Supplementation in Children With Autism: A Double-Blind Randomized, Placebo-Controlled Pilot Study; G.P. Amminger, et al.; February 2007
- Ontario Adult Autism Research and Support Network: Autism in Adulthood
- Disability Resource Directory: Autism in Adults
- MedlinePlus: Fish Oil
- University of Maryland Medical Center: Autism
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