Omega 3 Deficiency in ADHD Children

The connection between omega 3 fatty acid deficiency and ADHD has been confirmed by studies in which youngsters with ADHD, when compared with non-ADHD children, had much lower blood levels of docosahexaenoic acid, an omega 3 fatty acid necessary for normal structure of neurons of the eyes and the cerebral cortex (the brain region that handles higher functions such as reasoning and memory).  DHA is obtained directly from wild ocean fish sources or from certain algae, or may be synthesized within the body from the alpha-linolenic acid found in flaxseed (although some children might be genetically unable to form this omega 3).  It is for this reason that ADHD is one situation where one would want preformed EPA and DHA either from fish oil-type supplements or from specific types of wild fish.

Omega 3 Helps ADHD Children

All cells throughout the human body are enveloped by membranes composed chiefly of essential fatty acids in the form of phospholipids.  These play a major role in determining the integrity and fluidity of cell membranes.  What determines the type of phopholipid in the cell membrane is the type of fat consumed.  Unfortunately, our children's diets, which may be laden with saturated and unfavorable polyunsaturated fats from beef, dairy and corn oil, interfere with the optimal balance of phospholipids in cell membranes.  When the cell membranes are composed of excess saturated fats or omega-6 fatty acids, children may exhibit all of the symptoms of ADHD.

A phospholipid composed of a saturated fat or trans fatty acid differs considerably in structure and function from a phospholipid composed of an essential fatty acid.  In addition, there are differences between the structure of an omega 3 oil-based membrane and an omega 6 dominant membrane.

Up to 80 percent of the fatty acids in the cerebral cortex of the brain are composed of omega 3 fatty acids.  It is thought that the cell is programmed to selectively incorporate the different fatty acids it needs to maintain optimal function, assuming that what the cell needs is in adequate supply from the diet.  In actuality, what becomes incorporated into the cell membranes is determined primarily by diet.  A diet composed of largely saturated fat, cholesterol, and hydrogenated and trans fatty acids, such as the junk food American diet, is going to lead membranes which are much less fluid and much more dysfunctional in nature compared to the membranes of an individual consuming optimal levels of essential fatty acids.  Children with such imbalances are more likely to display aggressive, impulsive, and disruptive behavior, lack desirable attention spans, and are more likely to exhibit antisocial behavior.  

A relative deficiency of essential fatty acids in cellular membranes makes it virtually impossible for cell membrane to perform its vital functions.  The basic function of the cell membrane is to serve as a selective barrier that regulates the passage of certain materials in and out of the cell.  Where there is a disturbance of structure or function of the cell membrane, there is a tremendous disruption of homeostatis.  Homeostsasis refers to the maintenance of static conditions in the internal environment of the cell and the human body as a whole.

FYI:  The omega 3 fatty acids are concentrated in the brain.  Because of their relative scarceness in the American diet, many children-perhaps a majority of children today - are deficient in omega 3 fatty acids.  Learning specialists now believe omega 3 fatty acids deficieny leads to unique symptoms during childhood, including behavioral problems. 

ADHD Definition

Attention deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) is a medical term that descrives children or adults who are chronically inattentive, uncontrollably impulsive, and hyperactive in a manner inappropriate for mental and chronical age.

Recommended Dosage For Children

1 Tablespoon of flax oil a day per 100 lbs (children or adults).