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For free friendly advice or to order over the phone with a card call: 01772 883950
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Omega 3 Oil Attention Deficit Disorder
Among the possible conditions that respond to treatment with omega 3 oil, attention deficit disorder is one of the most promising. Although more research still needs to be done, several studies have demonstrated improvement in children with attention deficit disorder when they take omega 3 oil supplements.
One Australian study of over 100 children demonstrated that in the children who received omega 3 oil, attention deficit disorder symptoms were demonstrably improved. Children were able to focus and to sit quietly, and their school performance improved.
Another study of boys demonstrated fewer behavior problems and better learning when the boys took omega 3 oil supplements.
Possible Mechanism of Action
It is believed that children with ADHD may have inadequate levels of EPA (eicosapentaenoic
acid) and DHA (docosahexaenoic acid) in their bodies, and specifically in
their brains. EPA, especially, is essential for brain function, and
this deficit may explain the symptoms of ADHD.
Another abnormality that is often present in children with ADHD is abnormal dopamine levels in the brain. Omega 3 oils help regulate dopamine and other neurotransmitter levels.
Supplementing the diet of children who have ADHD with omega 3 oils may help correct these problems, allowing the childrens’ brains to function normally.
Which Supplement at Which Dose?
Neither safe nor optimal doses of omega 3 oil supplementation have been established
for children. A few precautions are necessary in giving omega 3 supplements
to children.
- Children under the age of two should not receive supplements except on the advice of a physician. Although infants and toddlers have a high need for DHA because they are building brain tissue, they should get adequate amounts in their food. Breast milk has high levels of DHA, and infant formula usually contains DHA.
- It is important not to give excessive amounts of vitamins A and D, which are often found in fish oil supplements, like cod liver oil. Vitaminosis A can be a serious problem in children.
- Children over the age of two should be given very pure forms of EPA fish oils or omega 3 supplements very high in EPA. Heavy metals and environmental pollutants can be concentrated in cold water fish, and can be retained in the oil unless it is very pure like Pure EPA. Children are very vulnerable to the effects of these contaminants.
When adequate precautions are taken in supplementing with omega 3 oil, attention deficit disorder may improve. Omega 3 oils can provide a safe alternative to medications for some children with ADHD.
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For free friendly advice or to order over the phone with a card call: 01772 883950
Omega 3 fish oils Pure EPA is available exclusively from mind 1st.
Mind1st Information Line: 01772 883950
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