ADD and Fish Oil - Benefits

Is there any link between ADD and fish oil?

ADD, which stands for attention deficit disorder, was originally a term used to refer to a condition whereby children had difficulty concentrating in school. Today, the definition has been extended to also refer to adults.

Some symptoms of ADD include having difficulty concentrating, being easily distracted, having difficulty completing tasks, being prone to impulsive behavior, etc. Sometimes, excessive physical activity is also a sign of the condition. These issues affect the social and professional lives of affected persons, and negatively impact their ability to perform in school or at work. Relationships, too, probably suffer.

The term "ADD" is sometimes used interchangeably with ADHD, or attention deficit-hyperactivity disorder, although they are also sometimes quoted as separate conditions.

ADD and / or ADHD is on the rise, and, as with most conventional treatments, the use of drugs to treat these conditions comes with significant side effects. What, then, is the link between ADD and fish oil, and can the latter help?

The link between ADD and fish oil is down to the high concentration of omega 3 fatty acids (DHA and EPA) in it. Omega 3 fatty acids are well lauded for being an excellent tonic for the brain, in particular because this organ is made up mostly of fat in the first place. This helps to explain ADD omega 3 benefits.

Fish oil helps in concentration. It also boosts the development of the brain and the nervous system in children.

Some evidence suggests that fish oil may have benefits on various psychiatric disorders, including ADD. Some sources go further to suggest that fish oil has the ability to treat the condition.

Indeed, there is preliminary evidence that children who suffer from attention deficit disorder have low levels of DHA in their bodies. In one particular 12-week long double-blind research study, children with ADHD who were given a fatty-acid supplement containing EPA, DHA, GLA and other fatty acids experienced better cognitive function and reduced behavioral problems, with no negative effects observed.

Another 15-week study in Australia found that fish oil and evening primrose supplements markedly improved the condition of children with ADHD.