When fish oil is typed into a search engine phrases, including curbs Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) symptoms, is the key to unlocking the ADHD brain, and is more effective than Ritalin appear. But does fish oil really improve attention? Unlock the brain? Improve autism symptoms?
This is what can be conclusively said about omega-3 fatty acids. Children with ADHD and autism have lower levels of omega-3 fatty acids in their blood. This is believed to be due to an inability to metabolize and absorb some micronutrients. Cognitive and neural growth depends on omega-3 essential fatty acids, which are often lacking in the child’s diet. A deficit of omega-3 fatty acids may result in not only atypical behaviors, but chronic health problems as well. When there is an imbalance between omega-3 and omega-6 fats the body has increased inflammation and it changes the balance of fats available to the brain and nervous system, which hinders the child’s brain function. Recent evidence demonstrates that this imbalance may be associated with a variety of physical and mental health disorders, such as ADHD and autism (Montgomery et al., 2013).
So yes, while it may not entirely unlock the brain. Fish oil can supplement psychotropic drugs and improve brain functioning in children with a deficit of omega-3 fatty acids. No need for a fishing pole, just head to a reputable source such as Whole Foods. After all who wants to take rancid fish oil high in mercury? Happy fishing.
Reference
Montgomery, P., Burton, J. R., Sewell, R. P., Spreckelsen, T. F., & Richardson, A. J. (2013). Low blood long chain omega-3 fatty acids in UK children are associated with poor cognitive performance and behavior: A cross-sectional analysis from the DOLAB study. PLoS One, 8(6) doi:http://dx.doi.org/10.1371/journal.pone.0066697
