Asperger's syndrome is a condition on the autism spectrum that causes developmental delays and interferes with a person's ability to communicate and socialize. Common traits of the disorder are social awkwardness and an all-consuming interest in specific topics or hobbies. Currently, there is no cure for Asperger's. MayoClinic.com reports that there is some evidence to support the use of certain dietary supplements, including fish oil, for the treatment of the condition.
About Fish Oil
Fish oil supplements, also known as omega-3 fatty acids, are commonly used for the treatment of heart diseases because of their ability to lower blood pressure and reduce fats that clog arteries. Fish oil has also been linked to improving mental health. MayoClinic.com reports fish oils play an important role in brain function and that chemicals in the oils may reduce depression. Omega-3 fatty acids come from fatty fish including salmon, tuna and mackerel. The body cannot produce these omega-3s.
Cognitive Function
A 2005 study published in "Autism Digest" found that omega-3 fatty acids might be beneficial to children with Asperger's syndrome. The researchers gave kids, aged 3 to 10, who were diagnosed with the autism spectrum disorder an omega-3 fatty acid supplement every day for three months and assessed their progress on days 45 and 90. All of the children showed language and learning-skill improvement. There was also a significant increase in receptive language, making verbal requests, play skills and social interaction.
Hyperactivity
In 2007, researchers from the Medical University of Vienna found that fish oil may also reduce hyperactivity in children with the developmental disorder. The study, published in the journal "Biological Psychiatry," enrolled 13 children, aged 5 to 17, in the study. The volunteers were diagnosed with Asperger's along with severe tantrums, aggression or self-injury characteristics. Over the course of six weeks, the kids were given either a fish oil supplement or placebo. While the researchers saw an improvement in hyperactivity in kids on the omega-3 fatty acid supplement, there was no evidence that fish oil reduced other negative behaviors.
Considerations
The compounds responsible for health benefits in fish oil are eicosapentaenoic acid, or EPA, and docosahexaenoic acid, or DHA. In addition to fish, these omega-3 fatty acids can be obtained from supplements, in the form of a pill, liquid, capsule or chewable tablet. Research Autism, a charity committed to researching interventions for the syndrome, reports that there's not enough evidence to support an exact supplemental dose of omega-3 fatty acids that will benefit all people with an autism disorder. The University of Maryland Medical Center reports that most studies show that taking 1,000 to 2,500 mg of DHA per day is safe. Consuming two to three servings of fish per week is equivalent to about 1,250 mg of EPA and DHA daily. While you should discuss your child's unique needs with his pediatrician before using a fish oil supplement, for the treatment of other childhood conditions, the National Institutes of Health suggests omega-3 fatty acid supplements that range from about 4 g of fish oil a day or 17 mg of EPA and 7.3 mg of DHA daily.
References
- Autism Speaks: Frequently Asked Questions
- MayoClinic.com: Asperger's Syndrome; November 2010
- "Autism-Asperger's Digest;" AAD-EFA Benefits on Language and Learning Skills in Children with Autism and Asperger's Syndrome; L. Patrick, et al.; January 2005
- University of Maryland Medical Center; Docosahexaenoic Acid; September 2008
- "Biological Psychiatry"; Omega-3 Fatty Acids Supplementation in Children with Autism; GP Amminger; February 2007
- MedlinePlus: Fish Oil; February 2011
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