ADHD And Fish Oil Studies: What Do They Show?

Although more research is needed, studies of patients with ADHD who have been treated with fish oil have been very encouraging. In the studies, all of the core symptoms of ADHD have improved with the use of Omega 3.

You probably already know that oil from cold water fatty fish such as mackerel, tuna and salmon promote optimal heart and brain health. You may also know that oil from fatty fish has incredible anti-inflammatory properties.

Now, to these benefits, you can add the benefit of helping reduce the symptoms of children and adults with ADHD.

ADHD

Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) is characterized by an inability to focus on anything beyond a few minutes. This short attention span interferes with learning. Therefore, children with ADHD usually have associated learning disabilities too. Affected children typically exhibit hyperactivity and associated disruptive behavior.

Fish Oil and ADHD - The Link

It has been known for some time that Omega 3 fatty acids, the main component of fish pills, are essential for fetal brain development and brain development in infants. This led to studies of whether Omega 3 fatty acids play a significant role in ADHD.

Let's look at the results of some of these studies to understand the link between Omega 3 fatty acids and ADHD.

ADHD And Fish Oil Studies

Studies conducted on ADHD sufferers have consistently shown that they have low levels of two essential Omega 3 fatty acids - DHA and EPA.

In one study, children with ADHD were given fish capsule supplements for a period of three months. At the end of the period, there were significant improvements in behavior, reading and spelling skills.

Another study, conducted by the Inflammation Research Foundation, also provided encouraging results. The study was conducted over a period of eight weeks, and it showed a significant reduction in the inattention and hyperactivity scores of the study participants.

A Word of Caution

Remember that research in the area of ADHD and fish oil is still in the early stages. Though results are encouraging, we cannot say with certainty that Omega 3 supplements alone can combat ADHD.

In general, the treatment of ADHD involves a multi-pronged approach using various methods. Oil from fish can definitely be one part of the treatment regimen for ADHD. However, you should also consult your pediatrician about other treatments for ADHD.

A Fish Oil Supplement Can Be The Best Source Of Omega 3

Knowing that the oil from fatty fish can reduce the symptoms of ADHD, the question becomes: How do we get this essential nutrient?

One alternative is to eat fresh water fatty fish at least twice a week.

However, this is not always practical. For those who cannot be sure that they will eat the necessary amount of fatty fish each week, the best source of Omega 3 fatty acids may be a dietary supplement.

Many such supplements are available in the market. Choose one that is molecularly distilled and proven to be high in anti-inflammatory properties, such as Omega 3 DHA Fish Oil from Xtend-Life Natural Products.

Source by Phil Santa Maria

Originally Published Here: ADHD And Fish Oil Studies: What Do They Show?