Hyperactivity, what benefits from omega-3s?
I have a nine-year-old boy who is very active and has a hard time concentrating, what supplement do you recommend? He eats very little fish and no vegetables. Thank you!
Dear Nadia,
Based on what you describe, one product I could recommend for your 9-year-old is VitaDHA in single-dose vials. It must be said, however, that one must consider dietary supplements as a nutritional support with exclusively nutritional and physiological effects that are useful in promoting the regular performance of the body's functions. The intake of dietary supplements of omega-3 fatty acids EPA and DHA is particularly indicated in case of their reduced dietary intake or in case of increased need. Omega-3 DHA is useful for maintaining normal brain and visual function with a daily intake of at least 250 mg per day.
This randomized, controlled study measured the concentrations, in red blood cells, of DHA (docosahexaenoic acid) and EPA (eicosapentaenoic acid) and behavior of 90 children with ADHD (Attention Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder) between the ages of 7 and12 years who were divided into 3 groups and received for 4 months:
- Group 1: EPA-rich fish oil supplements ( 1109 mg EPA + DHA 108 mg per day)
- Group 2: fish oil supplements rich in DHA (264 mg EPA + DHA 1,032 mg per day)
- Group 3(control group): safflower oil ( 1467 mg linoleic acid per day).
The results of the study showed that increased levels of EPA and DHA in the red blood cell membranes of participants supplemented with omega-3 fatty acids were associated with improvement in spelling, cognitive problems, attention,hyperactivity, and overall improvement in behavior. The study authors believe that decreasing omega-6 levels in favor of omega-3 levels also allowed for an improvement in ADHD symptoms.
The researchers added that although EPA had previously been considered superior and more important than DHA in ADHD, the results of this study suggest that DHA makes a greater contribution to improvingADHD. The dosage used in the DHA-rich fish oil treated group corresponds to about 1 vial of VitaDHA per day to be taken before a main meal. The oil can be taken as is because it has no fishy odor/flavor and is lemon flavored or can be added to white or fruit yogurt, spreadable cheese, or smoothies.
I would like to point out that only your doctor will be able to assess the applicability or otherwise of this type of supplementation to your child's situation. I remain available for further information.
Sincerely,
Rosaria Ramondino Pharmacist and Pharmaceutical Chemist
