Omega 3 Fatty Acids + ADHD

Did you know that low levels of omega-3 fatty acids have been associated with various cognitive and behavioral issues, including Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD)?

Lower levels of long-chain polyunsaturated fatty acids, particularly omega-3 fatty acids, in blood have repeatedly been associated with a variety of behavioral disorders including attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) (Antalis et al., 2006; Gow & Hibbeln, 2014; Johnson et al., 2012; Richardson, 2006).

Omega-3 fatty acids, particularly EPA (eicosapentaenoic acid) and DHA (docosahexaenoic acid), play a crucial role in brain health and function.

Effects of Low Omega-3 on ADHD

Impaired Cognitive Functioning

Omega-3s are essential for maintaining healthy brain cell membranes and for neurotransmission. A deficiency can lead to issues with attention, memory, and cognitive performance—key areas of concern for individuals with ADHD.

Worsened Hyperactivity and Impulsivity

Studies have shown that children and adults with ADHD tend to have lower levels of omega-3s in their blood. This deficiency may exacerbate symptoms such as hyperactivity, impulsiveness, and difficulty regulating emotions.

Lowered Concentration and Attention Span

Omega-3s influence the production of dopamine, a neurotransmitter that plays a role in attention and focus. A lack of omega-3s can lead to decreased dopamine activity, resulting in shorter attention spans and difficulty focusing.

Emotional Dysregulation

Emotional regulation problems, such as mood swings or irritability, are common in individuals with ADHD. Omega-3s help stabilize mood, and low levels may contribute to emotional outbursts and mood imbalances.

Reduced Efficacy of ADHD Medications

Some research suggests that individuals with low omega-3 levels may not respond as effectively to ADHD medications. Supplementing with omega-3s has been shown to enhance the therapeutic effects of traditional treatments.

Research suggests that increasing dietary intake and supplementation of omega-3s is a vital complementary treatment that can help improve symptoms of ADHD, particularly in children.

Here at Well Mind Body we only recommend supplements that have been third party tested for potency and quality. Some of our favorite Omega 3 supplements for ADHD include:

FocusNeeds™ by NeuroNeeds

FocusNeeds™ is a combination food supplement product consisting of several all-natural products, including vitamins, minerals, and omega-3 fatty acids. It is designed using ingredients that have demonstrated to be helpful in improving attention or focus in clinical studies. Focus Needs can be ordered here.

OmegaPure 900 EC™ 120 Softgels by Xymogen

OmegaPure 900 EC™ is International Fish Oil Standards (IFOS) five-star certified, which assures the highest level of purity, stability, and potency in fish oils. Each dose of this concentrated fish oil provides 900 mg of EPA and DHA and is delivered in a small, fish-gelatin–based softgel. The softgels are covered with a GRAS-certified enteric coating so that they are easy to swallow and the EPA/DHA content is optimally absorbed. EPA and DHA from fish oil promote wellness by supporting cardiovascular health, cytokine balance, joint health, and brain and nervous system function. OmegaPure can be found here.

OmegAvail Smoothie by Designs for Health

OmegAvail™ Smoothies are delicious tasting, potent fish oil products. They are manufactured using a proprietary emulsification technology that significantly reduces the size of fish oil molecules, resulting in enhanced absorption and easy digestion. These novel products are ideal for children and those who prefer not to swallow softgels. They have the taste of a fruit smoothie without any oily taste or texture. OmegAvail™ Smoothies are very convenient to use, as they quickly dissolve for easy mixing in water, juice, or blended beverages. They may also be taken alone. OmegAvail Smoothie by Designs for Health can be ordered here.

References

Antalis, C. J., Stevens, L. J., Campbell, M., Pazdro, R., Ericson, K., & Burgess, J. R. (2006). Omega-3 fatty acid status in attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder. Prostaglandins, Leukotrienes and Essential Fatty Acids, 75(4–5), 299–308. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.plefa.2006.07.004

Gow, R. V., & Hibbeln, J. R. (2014). Omega‐3 and treatment implications in Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) and associated behavioral symptoms. Lipid Technology, 26(1), 7–10. https://doi.org/10.1002/lite.201400002

Johnson, M., Månsson, J.-E., Östlund, S., Fransson, G., Areskoug, B., Hjalmarsson, K., Landgren, M., Kadesjö, B., & Gillberg, C. (2012). Fatty acids in ADHD: Plasma profiles in a placebo-controlled study of Omega 3/6 fatty acids in children and adolescents. ADHD Attention Deficit and Hyperactivity Disorders, 4(4), 199–204. https://doi.org/10.1007/s12402-012-0084-4

Richardson, A. J. (2006). Omega-3 fatty acids in ADHD and related neurodevelopmental disorders. International Review of Psychiatry, 18(2), 155–172. https://doi.org/10.1080/09540260600583031

***Prior to changing any medications or supplements, please consult with your doctor. All information is for educational purposes only.