The effect of alpha-linolenic acid supplementation on ADHD symptoms in children: a randomized controlled double-blind study.

ABSTRACT: BACKGROUND:Attention deficit-hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is the most common neuro-developmental disorder in childhood. Its pharmacologic treatment mostly includes methylphenidate, yet many parents seek alternative, "natural," therapeutic options, commonly omega-3 fatty acids. Previous studies of supplementation with fish oil or long-chain omega-3 fatty acids to children with ADHD yielded mixed results. The use of alpha-linolenic acid (ALA), a medium-chained, plant-based omega-3 fatty acid (18:3 n-3), has not been sufficiently examined in this population. METHODS:Forty untreated children with ADHD, aged 6-16 years, were randomized to receive either 2 g/day of oil containing 1 g ALA or placebo, for 8 weeks. Before and after supplementation, the children underwent a physician assessment of

SUBMITTER: Dubnov-Raz G 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC4188038 | biostudies-literature | 2014

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature