In the last 10 years, the diagnosis rate for Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) has risen dramatically among school-age children. This condition is characterized by a notable difficulty to stay focused on specific tasks, and many parents find themselves torn over how it should be addressed. While it falls to each family to make this decision with the help of medical professionals, there is a growing body of research indicating that natural intervention methods including changes in diet may help mitigate some of the most prominent symptoms of ADHD.
Recently, the Journal of Attention Disorders published a study from the University of South Australia regarding the potential benefits of omega-3 fatty acids for children with ADHD. The researchers sought to determine if taking omega-3 in supplement form could influence attention, behavior and the challenges in literacy that these children often experience. The study involved 90 children who were divided into three groups. One segment received a supplement of the omega-3 fatty acid DHA, while another received EPA and the third took a control supplement over the course of a year.
The scientists conducted blood samples and also relied on parent-reported levels of behavioral changes and progress to gauge the influence of the supplements. In doing so, they concluded that "increasing […] DHA and EPA via dietary supplementation may improve behavior, attention, and literacy in children with ADHD," the study abstract states.
Omega-3 fatty acids play a vital role in brain support, but they can also influence blood pressure, mood and other aspects of overall health. Click here to read information about our omega-3 supplements.