By Stephanie Moulton Sarkis, PhD
Q:I’ve heard a lot about fish oil being a treatment for ADHD. Does it really work, and if so, how can I get it for my child?
A: I hear this question often from parents of kids with ADHD who are looking at different types of ADHD treatment. But it’s not really the fish oil that has a potential benefit to some kids with ADHD. It’s the omega fatty acids found in fish oil that seem to have some effect on ADHD symptoms. Omegas are also found in other foods, including vegetables, flaxseed, and krill oils.
Parents sometimes think that because these oils are natural, it’s not a problem to give fish oil supplements sold at stores to their child. But fish oil supplements can have side effects, and there’s no set dosage that’s right for all kids. So it’s important to talk to your child’s doctor first. There are prescription supplements that you can discuss.
Omegas are important for general health. They help our bodies function properly. However, a 2014 study found that kids with ADHD have a lower level of omega-3 than kids without ADHD. Low levels can cause kids to have trouble with attention, focus and , and other ADHD symptoms.
Research shows that omega supplements increase a low level of omegas in the blood. That boost can be somewhat helpful in treating ADHD symptoms. One study found that omega-3 helps neurons in the brain communicate better. That may improve attention, focus, motivation and working memory for kids with ADHD.
More studies are being done on the impact of omegas on ADHD. At this point, the fatty acids aren’t meant to be a substitute for ADHD medication and cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT). But they may be taken along with medication, as long as your child’s doctor gives the OK. Omegas can also be taken while your child does CBT.
