Over 60,000 children in Ireland are affected by ADHD, but it seems there may be light at the end of the tunnel for sufferers and their families.
Specific fish oil supplements may help reduce symptoms of attention deficit hyperactivity disorder in children, according to a new study. The supplement, which contains the fish oils Omega 3 and 6, can also reduce certain medication side effects when both are taken together.
ADHD is a genetic brain disorder that affects behaviour and learning in kids and can continue right into adulthood. The new study examined the supplement Equazen eye q in 90 children aged between 6 - 12 years old who were newly diagnosed with ADHD. The children were either receiving Equazen eye q alone or together with the prescribed ADHD medication methylphenidate (MPH) (Ritalin).
Children who were given the fish oil supplement alone saw their disease symptoms significantly reduced. Results also showed that those given both Equazen eye q and MPH needed a lower dose of MPH to reduce disease symptoms. This means the side effects sometimes seen in children taking MPH – including insomnia, tremors and loss of appetite – were significantly lower in this combined treatment group.
According to Emma Buckley, nutritionist and childcare specialist, the results of this study are particularly encouraging considering the side effects associated with standard treatment: "ADHD can have a detrimental behavioural and social impact on children, principally in the school setting. So, whilst there are effective pharmacological interventions available, the side effects that are sometimes experienced can have quite a considerable impact on these children."
“This study on Equazen eye q is particularly encouraging considering the high prevalence of the condition in Ireland, and the number of children currently taking an ADHD medication. Furthermore, parents considering giving their children a ‘treatment holiday’ will now have an aid to bridge the gap to conventional ADHD medication.”
It is recommended that parents speak to their family doctor before giving supplements to their child with ADHD, particularly if medication is being prescribed.
