Fish Oil and Adhd

Millions of people are diagnosed each year withalso other similar diseases such as dyslexia and
attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD).autistism. This is good finding for parents of
While some adults have ADHD it is primarilychildren affected by these disorders.
diagnosed in children. Standard methods ofThe study shows a definite link between dietary
treatment typically include drug medications thatdeficiencies and increased incidence of ADHD
can have side effects. New research has foundsymptoms. Omega-3 has been shown to reduce
that fish oil can help minimize or alleviate theimpulsivity, hyperactivity, short attention span and
symptoms of ADHD. This adds to the hope thatinattention. This gives new hope to parents who
ADHD can be successfully treated with diet andwish to treat their childrens ADHD through
supplements.improved diet.
This finding is a result of an Oxford-Durham studyThe first place to start is to consume foods with
of mainstream school children aged five to 12high Omega-3 fatty acids. Omega-3 fatty acids
years old with mild to moderate ADHD. Theare found naturally in fish such as salmon, cod,
study was a treatment trial of the effects ofmackerel and sardines. Those who dont get
fatty acids on childhood behavior and learning. Theenough Omega-3 through their diet should take an
study was comprehensive with more than 12,000Omega-3 supplement. The study found that the
assessments during the trial.results of the Omega-3 supplement were about
The study was random with some studentsthe same as the results typically found in
taking a supplement of Omega-3 fatty acids whileprescription ADHD medications.
others took a placebo. After three months, thoseThe University of South Australia did a similar
students who took Omega-3 had significantstudy and found that children who took Omega-3
improvements in schoolwork. The study usedsupplements showed a decrease in the
performance assessments of motor function,symptoms of ADHD.
reading and spelling along with teacher-ratedParents who are searching for a non-traditional
attention symptoms. Teachers observed that thetreatment may want to consider giving Omega-3
behavior of the children who took Omega-3 wassupplements to their ADHD children. Omega-3
improved over those who took a placebo.supplements are readily available at most
The decrease in ADHD symptoms is an importantpharmacies and drug stores. It is not included in
finding showing that Omega-3 supplements maytypical daily vitamin products or multi-vitamin
actually help to improve or even eliminate manysupplements. Always follow the label instructions
of the symptoms of ADHD. Deficiencies inand consult with your childs doctor before
Omega-3 may account for not only ADHD butstarting a new vitamin or supplement regime.