Omega-3 Fatty Acid Supplementation for the Treatment of Children With Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder Symptomatology: Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis

Abstract

Objective Several studies have demonstrated differences in omega-3 fatty acid composition in plasma and in erythrocyte membranes in patients with ADHD compared to unaffected controls. Omega-3 fatty acids have anti-inflammatory properties and can alter central nervous system cell membrane fluidity and phospholipid composition. Cell membrane fluidity can alter serotonin and dopamine neurotransmission. The goal of this meta-analysis is to examine the efficacy of omega-3 fatty acid supplementation in children with ADHD. Method We searched PubMED for randomized, placebo-controlled trials examining omega-3 fatty acid supplementation in children with ADHD symptomatology. Our primary outcome measure was standardized mean difference in rating scales of ADHD severity. We conducted secondary analyses to determine the effects of dosing of different omega-3 fatty acids in supplements. Results Ten trials involving 699 children were included in this meta-analysis. Omega-3 fatty acid supplementation demonstrated a small, but significant effect in improving ADHD symptoms. Eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) dose within supplements was significantly correlated with supplement efficacy. We found no evidence of publication bias or heterogeneity between trials. Conclusion Omega-3 fatty acid supplementation, particularly with higher doses of EPA, was modestly effective in the treatment of ADHD. The relative efficacy of omega-3 fatty acid supplementation was modest compared to currently available pharmacotherapies for ADHD such as psychostimulants, atomoxetine or alpha-2 agonists. However, given its relatively benign side-effect profile and evidence of modest efficacy, it may be reasonable to use omega-3 fatty supplementation to augment traditional pharmacological interventions or for families who decline other psychopharmacological options.

The Mediterranean Diet and ADHD in Children and Adolescents

“…Two recent meta-analyses reported a small but beneficial effect of omega-3 supplementation on reducing symptoms of ADHD. 5,33,34 However, this finding is not entirely supported by the current evidence as a primary treatment of ADHD. 35 In this study, it was not possible to estimate omega-3 intake among controls and cases because the Spanish food-composition tables 20 do not contain information about omega-3 fatty acids.…”

A Critical Review on the Usage of Ghrita in Unmada

“…This makes the lipids and lipid soluble drugs pass easily through BBB. So the drugs which are given in the form of ghee which are lipids rapidly absorbed in the target areas of central nervous system 32 . Traditionally prepared ghee contains DHA, an omega 3 long chain poly unsaturated fatty acid 33 .…”

Assessment and Treatment of Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder: Part 2

“…Of those studied, omega-3 fatty acid supplementation, elimination of food colorings, and other elimination diets have the best evidence for efficacy but are likely to only be a viable option for a subset of patients. [31][32][33] Other alternative interventions such as neurofeedback, use of megavitamins, and chelation therapy currently have insufficient evidence to support their use, and in the case of megavitamins and chelation therapy, may cause adverse health consequences and therefore are contraindicated. 34 …”