(09-05-10) The Impact of Polyunsaturated Fatty Acids in Reducing Child Attention Deficit and Hyperactivity Disorders.

Transler C, Eilander A, Mitchell S, van de Meer N.
Sensation, Perception and Behavior Department.
Abstract

Objectives: To review the impact of polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFA) in reducing ADHD symptoms in children. Methods: Peer-reviewed experimental literature published from 1980 to Mai 2009 is consulted (Psychinfo, Medline, and resulting reference lists). Results: Placebo-controlled studies with ADHD or hyperactive children show no effects on behaviors or cognition when only n- 6 (omega-6) PUFA, only docosahexaenoic acid (DHA), or n-6 and n-3 (omega-3) short-chain PUFA are supplemented. Yet three out of four studies suggest that a combination of long-chain n-3 and n-6 fatty acids (DHA, eicosapentaenoic acid [EPA], and gamma-linolenic acid [GLA]) supplemented daily for 3 to 4 months could lead to a reduction in ADHD symptomatology. Results on cognitive outcomes are inconsistent. Conclusions: Evidence is too limited to reach definitive conclusions but suggests that research on the impact of long-chain PUFA (n-3 and n-6) should continue with special focus on individual differences (genetic and fatty acid markers), mechanisms (brain imaging), and new enhanced methods of systematic observations of behaviors. (J. of Att. Dis. 2007; XX(X) 1-XX).

Source: J Atten Disord. 2010 Apr 27.

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