Can fish oil treat ADHD? Australian study to find out

A new study being run by Queensland University of Technology and the University of South Australia will investigate whether daily doses of fish oil (Omega-3 Fatty Acids) can improve the attention, memory and learning of school-aged kids with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD).

QUT researchers are inviting children aged 7 to 12 with ADHD and learning difficulties, who are currently not taking medication or fish oil, to take part in the 12-month trial.

Chief investigator Professor Ross Young, from QUT’s Institute of Health and Biomedical Innovation, said recent international research showed that omega-3 fatty acids found in fish oil could boost literacy in hyperactive children.

“It may be the case that omega-3 fish oil is more effective than stimulant drugs commonly prescribed for children with ADHD.

“If we can help kids with ADHD before they get to high school, we are much more likely to improve their learning experience.”

Professor Young said the study would focus on reducing hyperactivity, impulsivity, learning and inattention problems.

“We think this study has considerable benefits in terms of improving behaviour attention and literacy skills of children with ADHD. This may impact on a child’s educational outcomes by bringing about more sustained and meaningful learning opportunities,” he said.

“About one quarter of children with ADHD have learning difficulties so the impact of this research is significant.”

There are two main types of omega-3 in fish oil: EPA and DHA. “We know that DHA is very important for brain development but we don’t know which will give greatest benefit in ADHD”, Professor Young said. “This study will be the first todirectly compare EPA with DHA in children with ADHD.”

The study will involve parents rating their son or daughter’s condition as well as test the child’s attention and literacy skills. It will require four visits to QUT’s Kelvin Grove campus over 12 months alongside daily doses of supplements.

Funded by the Australian Research Council, the study is a joint project between QUT and Drs Peter Howe and Natalie Sinn from the University of South Australia. Novasel Austraila is the commerical partner.

To take part in the Brisbane study or find out more phone Jacque Boon or Nicole Forbes on 07 3138 6349 or e-mail rm.young@qut.edu.au