Search:

Fish Oil And ADHD

Millions of people are diagnosed each year with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). While some adults have ADHD it is primarily diagnosed in children. Standard methods of treatment typically include drug medications that can have side effects. New research has found that fish oil can help minimize or alleviate the symptoms of ADHD. This adds to the hope that ADHD can be successfully treated with diet and supplements.

This finding is a result of an Oxford-Durham study of mainstream school children aged five to 12 years old with mild to moderate ADHD. The study was a treatment trial of the effects of fatty acids on childhood behavior and learning. The study was comprehensive with more than 12,000 assessments during the trial.

The study was random with some students taking a supplement of Omega-3 fatty acids while others took a placebo. After three months, those students who took Omega-3 had significant improvements in schoolwork. The study used performance assessments of motor function, reading and spelling along with teacher-rated attention symptoms. Teachers observed that the behavior of the children who took Omega-3 was improved over those who took a placebo.

The decrease in ADHD symptoms is an important finding showing that Omega-3 supplements may actually help to improve or even eliminate many of the symptoms of ADHD. Deficiencies in Omega-3 may account for not only ADHD but also other similar diseases such as dyslexia and autistism. This is good finding for parents of children affected by these disorders.

The study shows a definite link between dietary deficiencies and increased incidence of ADHD symptoms. Omega-3 has been shown to reduce impulsivity, hyperactivity, short attention span and inattention. This gives new hope to parents who wish to treat their children’s ADHD through improved diet.

The first place to start is to consume foods with high Omega-3 fatty acids. Omega-3 fatty acids are found naturally in fish such as salmon, cod, mackerel and sardines. Those who don’t get enough Omega-3 through their diet should take an Omega-3 supplement. The study found that the results of the Omega-3 supplement were about the same as the results typically found in prescription ADHD medications.

The University of South Australia did a similar study and found that children who took Omega-3 supplements showed a decrease in the symptoms of ADHD.

Parents who are searching for a non-traditional treatment may want to consider giving Omega-3 supplements to their ADHD children. Omega-3 supplements are readily available at most pharmacies and drug stores. It is not included in typical daily vitamin products or multi-vitamin supplements. Always follow the label instructions and consult with your child’s doctor before starting a new vitamin or supplement regime.

Free Article Source: http://www.za77.org

There's still a lack of studies to support ADHD and diet correlation. Nevertheless, a balanced diet is essential to developing and proper functioning of healthy brain cells. Check out the all natural and drug-free alternative treatments for ADHD at www.guidetoadhd.com/products/adhdremedies.html

Please Rate this Article

Not yet Rated

Click the XML Icon Above to Receive Health Articles Via RSS!

Additional Articles From Free Article Center's Health Category

Tips for Sexual Arousal - By : laten
Why Sexual Hygine Matters in a Relationship - By : classifieds.eugster.com.mx
Healthy Eating In A Busy World - By : Aaron Ballantyne
Snoring Surgery - By : Donald Arson
Drive Your Female Wild With These Techniques - By : Aaron Ballantyne
Arthritis Cures That Really Work - By : Aaron Ballantyne
Kissing - By : Anna J Robinson
Half Water Half Gas Review - By : Bertil Hjert
Lubricants For The Modern Woman - By : Aaron Ballantyne
Are You Prepared For A Natural Disaster? - By : Lori Sargu

	Print This Article
	Post Comment
	Add To Favorites
	Email to Friends
	Ezine Ready

Submit Articles
Member Login
Top Authors
Most Popular Articles
Submission Guidelines
Ezine Notifications
Article RSS Feeds

Write a professional-quality article for fame, fortune or web traffic in one day. Fail-safe method that any one can use!

Site News
About Us
Link to Us
Contact Us
Privacy Policy
Terms of Service