Pädiatrie und Therapeutik
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Omega-3 Fatty Acid Supplementation as Therapeutic Option for Children with ADHD-Symptoms

Regina Theresa Hauser, Judith Erler, Gabriele Kropshofer, Roman Crazzolara, Miriam Michel, Christina Salvador*

Background: Globally, the number of children with Attention/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) counts approximately 3.4%. One of the most common ways of treatment is the intake of psychostimulants. Hyperactive children can show significantly lower serum levels of omega-3 fatty acids, or even an acceleration of omega-3 fatty acid catabolism, compared to control groups without hyperactivity disorder. Especially Eicosapentaenoic Acid (EPA) and Docosahexaenoic Acid (DHA) are essential for children’s brain growth and function, thus their lack is assumed to influence the progress of the disorder negatively.

Methods: A PubMed search was conducted with key terms “omega-3 fatty acids” OR “children” OR “attention/ hyperactivity disorder”. The search strategy included meta-analyses, randomized controlled trials, clinical trials, observational studies, reviews and book chapters.

Conclusions: Due to the fact, that medication with psychostimulants is associated with several harmful secondary effects, this review presents the current knowledge regarding the impact of omega-3 fatty acid supplementation to alleviate ADHD-symptoms in children.