Fish Oil Improves ADHD Symptoms

In the United States, approximately 5.9 million children under the age of 18 have been diagnosed with ADHD making it one of the most common psychiatric conditions. ADHD affects a variety of behaviors including the attention span, impulse control, and aggression. Recently, researchers have found that there may be benefit in additional intake of Omega-3 fatty acids for improving attention span.

A research study focused on children between the ages of 8-14 included the supplementation of Omega-3 fatty acids over a 16 week period. In this time, it was found that those receiving supplemental Omega-3's had improved attention based on observation by their parents. It is worth noting, however, that other symptoms of aggression and impulse control.

Omega-3 fatty acids are commonly found in fish oil which is available directly in foods and nutritional supplements. The most common sources of omega-3's include trout, salmon, and herring. In the study, the children were provided with 650 milligrams of omega-3's in supplement form. As an added benefit of the research, it was found that these supplements can help to improve attention whether the individual has ADHD or not.